Through Lent with Pope Francis
Solidarity means much more than engaging in sporadic acts of generosity. It means thinking and acting in terms of community.
Frateli Tutti
It means that the lives of all are prior to the appropriation of goods by a few. It also means combatting the structural causes of poverty, inequality, the lack of work, land and housing, the denial of social and labour rights. It means confronting the destructive effects of the empire of money… Solidarity, understood in its most profound meaning, is a way of making history, and this is what popular movements are doing”.
Scripture
Acts 4:32-37 NCB
The entire community of believers was united in heart and soul. No one claimed any of his possessions as his own, for everything was held in common. With great power, the apostles bore witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and they were all greatly respected.
There was never anyone among them in need, because those who were the owners of lands or houses would sell them, bring the proceeds of the sale, and lay them at the feet of the apostles, to be distributed to any who were in need.
One such instance involved Joseph, a Levite and a native of Cyprus, to whom the apostles gave the name Barnabas, meaning “son of encouragement.” He sold a field that belonged to him and then brought the money to the apostles and laid it at their feet.
Thought for Today
There is no one type of governing approved of by the Church. But whatever government we choose, there should be a commitment to look after those who are most vulnerable.
Do I vote for people who offer me a better financial deal, or for those I consider will both help the country flourish and look after the most needy?
How far does my faith influence both my life and my politics?
Music
The Kingdom of God – Sung by young people of Lebanon written by J.Berthiert