11-17-24

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
November 17, 2024
A Catholic priest by the name of Marcelo Pérez was shot and killed last month. He was an ardent advocate for Indigenous peoples, collaborating with farmworkers and so many others who endured the violence perpetrated by the drug cartels and others involved in organized crime. He worked in the southern Mexico state of Chiapas, and he remained steadfast in his commitment to justice and peace through nonviolent means. Despite the persistent threats, his unshakable faith in God and the people he served remained unwavering. The emotional outrage of those in the church and the community he served is beyond words, yet even though I am always cautious when anything might imply what is often referred to as redemptive violence, there is something about moments like this. Faithfulness to the ways of God has the transformative power to not only change the hearts of individuals, but I firmly believe it can also alter the course of everything. Those whose love does not blink when challenged, especially in a life threatening way, are the people who add leverage to bending of the moral arc of universe. 

Today, we express our gratitude, Mighty God, because your love is mighty and inspiring, always finding a way to change everything. And when it is your changing power, it is change for the good of all. Amen.