“For centuries I’ve been telling them what I’d like for Christmas, and they don’t listen. So…” (CNS/Joe Heller)
January 1 is the World Day of Peace and this year, Pope Francis has chosen the theme “Overcome Indifference and Win Peace.” It is hard to maintain a reason for hope.We read the news and learn of terrorism, school shootings, kidnappings, human trafficking, religious persecution, misuse of power… and then we open the international pages and read more! We can quickly become overwhelmed with a feeling of resignation. What can I do about any of this? Why even bother trying?Pope Francis reminds us that “God is not indifferent! God cares about mankind! God does not abandon us!” In this Jubilee of Mercy, he invites every person to overcome indifference and have a humble, compassionate heart proclaiming and witnessing mercy. He warns us not to fall into “a monotonous routine which prevents us from discovering what is new and to ward off destructive cynicism.”
I believe this is why this Year of Mercy is elevated to a Jubilee Year. To break us out of our routines! To ward off cynicism! To convict our hearts of our indifference; our indifference to God, to our neighbors both nearby and around the world.
Indifference seeks excuses. We tell ourselves things like:
- It is their own fault they have no money or job,
- That’s the system in which we live; we can’t change it,
- What does one vote matter,
- The problem is too complicated.
God does not remain indifferent. He is attentive and in his mercy, he acts. We must be merciful like the Father, as our theme for this holy year encourages us.
“It is absolutely essential for the Church and for the credibility of her message that she herself live and testify to mercy. Her language and her gestures must transmit mercy, so as to touch the hearts of all people and inspire them once more to find the road that leads to the Father.”
Mercy is God’s love in action – doing the work of redeeming, ransoming, healing, and forgiving. Peace is the fruit of mercy – if we live in a culture of mercy, peace is sure to come.
All too often, Lord, we turn away from the world’s many problems, which seem too big, too complex, or too far away. Forgive us our indifference. It is easier, Lord, to see only what is around us: our lives, our homes, our challenges. Forgive us our isolation. Help us to see with your eyes: eyes which notice one another and help us understand. Help us to dream your dream: of communities that reach out and dialogue and where diverse people creatively cooperate. Help us to be people of solidarity and action, so moved by prayer, encounter, and understanding that peace can become a reality. Amen.
Please read Pope Francis’ full message for the World Day of Peace and refer to Catholics Confront Global Poverty for the prayer and handout.