Power

In the face of the violence, the unrest, and the divisions we see in the world today, what do we, as people of faith, have to offer the world? Can we move away from hatred and toward love? Away from war and toward peace in the spirit of Christ?

The preference for using power responsibly and non-violently is certainly part of the gospel message to us. If our Catholic faith makes a difference in our life, it must be to help us live the teachings of Jesus more fully.

St. James in his letter lays out the case against selfish ambition and negative passions, which only lead to discord and hatred and, in the worst cases, to violence and war.

We can see the truth in his statement: “Where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every foul practice. But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peaceable, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without inconstancy or insincerity. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace for those who cultivate peace.” A beautiful statement and exhortation for us to live by.

“God has called us through the Gospel to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:14)