Building Peace with Justice

Building Peace with Justice is a brief, weekly bulletin reflection, written by members of a Public Policy sub-committee in the Diocese of Rochester, that links the Sunday readings to Catholic social teaching. Many parishes publish them as space allows.

For Sunday Bulletins on December 9
In one of the most beautiful passages of the Bible, the writer of Isaiah describes the kingdom of God after justice is administered and peace flourishes, a place where there is no harm or ruin. Although a descendant of Jesse will lead us to the kingdom of God, John the Baptist points out that all people will be welcomed. Christ welcomes all who follow him into the kingdom where righteousness and truth prevail.

Reflection: As a follower of Jesus does my life lead me towards the peaceful kingdom? Is this choice reflected by my pursuit of justice, my allocation of personal resources, my invitation to others to know Christ?

For Sunday Bulletins on December 16
“Human hearts are asked to prepare a way for the Lord. Just as Christmas celebrates the coming of Emmanuel so many years ago and how he continues to come and dwell among us, so Advent is the time to prepare each year for the coming of God-with-us. Advent beckons to us. Be still. Be alert. Get into the spirit of the Old Testament folks and yearn for a Savior. Cry out to God. Cry out to be open and receptive. Sharpen your awareness of the God who dwells within. Open up. Hollow out. Receive. Welcome the one who comes.” From Fresh Bread by Joyce Rupp, OSM

Reflection: In this Holy Season, how do we express our yearning for the one who is to come by welcoming and hollowing out a place for those already dwelling among us, like the immigrant, the homeless poor, the refugee of war or natural disaster?