Jesus challenges his disciples to go beyond the strict justice of the Old Testament and embrace a new way of responding to violence and injustice. Instead of seeking revenge or resisting evil, Jesus calls his followers to forgive, to turn the other cheek, and to give generously even to their enemies. This radical love, which imitates the love of God, requires a willingness to let go of everything and to put oneself totally at the service of others.
The Catholic Church teaches that “Peace in this world, which is required for the respect and development of human life, is not simply the absence of war or a balance of power between adversaries. It is ‘the tranquility of order’ (Saint Augustine), ‘the work of justice’ (Isaiah 32:17) and the effect of charity. Earthly peace is the image and fruit of the peace of Christ” (CCCC 481).
Wise words from the philosopher, Socrates: “How can you call a man free when his pleasures rule over him?” Not to be led by their passions and addictions, humans need ascesis. Christians, in particular, are asked to follow the way of Jesus, who says: “If any want to be my followers let them deny themselves, take up their cross daily and follow me”.
As followers of Christ, we must strive to balance justice and mercy in our lives. Discernment and humility are key in this journey, guided by the Holy Spirit, to live a just and merciful life, fulfilling God’s law with righteousness. Let us avoid superficiality and carelessness, with the help of grace and discipline, to live a life that exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees.
Keeping the commandments will not be enough to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus teaches that the commandments have deeper implications beyond just avoiding physical harm and that the true measure of obedience lies in the motives of the heart. Through his teachings, Jesus emphasizes the importance of reconciling with others, avoiding adulterous thoughts and relationships, remaining faithful in marriage, and speaking truthfully without the need for oaths.
The Catholic Church recognizes the sacredness of human life and provides guidance on how to treat embryos, the sick, and the dying with respect and dignity. The Catechism of the Catholic Church outlines the obligation to protect human life, and addresses the morality of medical experiments and organ donation, as well as guidelines for end-of-life care. Let us explore this important moral and ethical issue through the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Bishop Stephen Lee has exhorted the faithful to pray for the shepherds and for more vocations, especially for the Catholic Diocese of Macau.
We have no idea how our small efforts, which we might think are irrelevant and unnoticed, if sustained by God’s grace, can give comfort, direction and hope to our fellow brothers and sisters who, like me, are often lost and weary.
The Christian is salt of the earth: with her/his presence, s/he is called upon to prevent corruption, not to allow society guided by wicked principles to rot and go into decay.
Catholic teaching states that human life must be respected because it is sacred. It is not lawful for anyone to destroy an innocent human being. However, there are times when our duty is to defend life, especially our own. We can legitimately defend ourselves while choosing not to kill.
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