New Year’s resolution

The beginning of a new year is an opportunity for many to make resolutions or promises to improve themselves and their lives. There are those who want to lose a few pounds. Others want to get fit. Some people want to read more or to be more disciplined in their prayer. I would suggest that if you are looking for something to commit to or a resolution to make, consider reflecting on the social teachings of the Catholic Church. How does my everyday behavior reflect Catholic social teaching?  

Throughout its history, but especially in the last 150 years, the Church has spoken widely — and often prophetically — the truth about the social order and the world in which we live. This social teaching derives from sacred scripture and four fundamental beliefs:  

First, all human beings are created in the image and likeness of God, so precious that God sent His only Son to save us from death.  

Second, we are called to live in community with God and with our sisters and brothers in the Body of Christ. As such, we are called to work for the common good rather than self-interest.  

Third, we are called to those in the greatest need, the “least of these,” as, in doing so, we serve God.  

Fourth, we are called to preach and bring about the kingdom of God.  

In light of these four beliefs, how can we, in this new year, live out lives in such a way that we respect the life and dignity of every human person, no matter if they are of a different culture, speak a different language, have a different belief, think differently than we do, or belong to the LGBTQ+ community?  

How do we respond to the call to belong to a family, to the community, and participate by fulfilling our rights and responsibilities? Rights are always accompanied by responsibilities. Human rights must be protected so that we can participate in the family and the community.  

As Catholic Christians, how do we respond in solidarity, especially to the poor and vulnerable in our community? Jesus showed a special affinity to those who were marginalized in society.  

Finally, God has given us the resources of the earth to use for our benefit. How do we care for God’s creation, our common home?  

In this New Year, we as Precious Blood people must live out Catholic social teaching so that we can “Let justice surge like the water, And goodness like an unfailing stream” (Amos 5:34).  

Gabino Zavala, JPIC Director