Building Peace with Justice

Building Peace with Justice is a brief, weekly bulletin reflection on Catholic social teaching written by members of a Rochester Diocese Public Policy sub-committee. This is the reflection for December 13.

“Don’t worry, be happy”, was a catchy phrase from a delightful tune that was popular a few years ago. Those words sum up beautifully the essence of today’s Scripture readings. They invite us to shout for joy because God’s love is very close at hand; ready to be born among us in Jesus. The readings encourage us to let go of our fears, our negative attitudes, all that weighs us down and rejoice in God’s all encompassing love. The joy of God’s love relationship with each person calls us to be more than who we are at this moment.

Reflection: Who do I leave out of my circle of justice and love…some relatives, co-workers, immigrants, Muslims, my neighbors…?