Loyola University Chicago put together a Lenten reflection booklet authored by university faculty and staff. I wrote today's entry and have posted it here for your perusing.
Today's readings critique something that comes somewhat naturally and quite easily to us as humans - the urge to judge others. If we are honest with God and each other, we are all guilty.
The skills of critique, judgment, evaluation, etc. are not bad in itself. It is perhaps a gift well used in analyses done in work settings, education venues, through critical thinking aimed at improvement and betterment. Yet, these readings seem to serve as a reminder to temper such impulses when it comes to the relational as God implores us to love (and maybe only that!) by being with the broken and hurting, the marginalized on the periphery, the outcast and unfit.
If we take anything away from this collection of readings, I might suggest reflecting on our (humanity's) retrieval of a basic characteristic of Jesus, one wrote about and witnessed over and over in scripture; mainly, that the commandment to love one another is primary and central to what we are about as Christians, providing vision and substance to the reign of God. This is especially vital when flooded with urges to become judge and jury, to place our social location and intellect above others. God knows differently, as do the evangelists writing for us today; their experience of God and Jesus spoke to them a different way, one grounded in mercy, compassion, good will and love. This is what Daniel is referring to when he states, "we have rebelled and departed from your commandments and your laws" (Dan 9:5).
Where have we individually, and collectively as a society, departed from God’s love? During this holy season, what would a ‘path of retrieval’ to God’s Grace and love look like?
Our writers today encourage retrieval of Christ's, and the early Yahwistic community's, vision of love for all and action on behalf of all. As Lent unfolds for us this year, may we be able to center ourselves in the authentic and original transforming Christ.
- Ryan Hoffmann
Enrollment Advisor, Institute of Pastoral Studies
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