Through Lent with Pope Francis
Whether believers or not, we are agreed today that the earth is essentially a shared inheritance, whose fruits are meant to benefit everyone…Hence every ecological approach needs to incorporate a social perspective which takes into account the fundamental rights of the poor and the underprivileged…
The Christian tradition has never recognised the right to private property as absolute or inviolable, and has stressed the social purpose of all forms of private property. Saint John Paul II forcefully reaffirmed this teaching, stating that “God gave the earth to the whole human race for the sustenance of all its members, without excluding or favouring anyone”. These are strong words.
Laudato si’ 72
Scripture
Mark 10:17-31 NIV
As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honour your father and mother.’“ Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy. ”Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.
Thought for Today
As I read these passages, where might I place myself in these readings?
What do I experience in my heart?
Where might God be nudging or inviting me?
Can I sit with Jesus and share my heart?
How does Jesus respond?
Music
Make me a Channel of your Peace, sung by Katherine Jenkins