“If you want peace, work for justice” Pope Paul VI
We must prioritize love and mercy over rigid adherence to law, especially when the law is interpreted in a way that causes injustice. Fr. Ron Rolheiser suggests that, like Jesus, we should focus on mercy, as true righteousness is found in recognizing our sinfulness and seeking God’s grace, not in strict adherence to rules. God’s quiet, hidden presence is within us, and is discovered through a silent, internal spirituality, similar to how the kingdom of God works subtly like yeast in dough.
Mercy over rigid law: While statutes and law are important, they must always be interpreted through the lens of love and mercy, not used as a tool for judgment. Many historical actions of the Church have been driven by a pursuit of “correct doctrine” that, in practice, has led to horror and injustice.
Humility and sinfulness: We are all sinners who fall short, and there is more joy in heaven over a repentant sinner than over those who believe they are already righteous. The emphasis is on acknowledging our sinfulness and accepting God’s grace, rather than on proving our own righteousness through adherence to the law.
Quiet, internal presence: God’s presence is a subtle, hidden force within us, rather than a loud, dramatic one. It is like the way the kingdom of God grows, like a seed or yeast, and we need to look for it within our own spiritual lives.
Social justice: God is not neutral in the face of injustice and poverty. Instead, God wants action against everything and everyone who perpetuates injustice and oppression. This is the call to social justice.