What is at the heart of the Gospel?
In every reading this week God’s preferential option for the poor and vulnerable is expressed. The readings offer us a clear and unequivocal call to justice as we follow Christ.
In Proverbs, those who are generous and just are blessed, and God is seen to be on the side of the poor and oppressed, while resisting those who are unjust. The Psalm celebrates God’s care for God’s people, and God’s healing, restoration and blessing on the poor and broken, and on those who live generously and justly.
In the letter of James, favouritism is denounced as breaking the law of love, and the people of faith are challenged to put their faith into action by caring for the poor.
Finally, Jesus is shown to be our example for compassionate living, as he heals both a Gentile woman’s daughter (after being challenged by her in his initial reluctance) and a Jewish man.
The basic and consistent message of the readings this week is this: Our faith is seen in how we treat others, especially in our love for, protection of and inclusion of the poor, the marginalised, the broken and the vulnerable. As such, favouritism, prejudice and discrimination are to be rejected, and inclusive love and welcome are to be embraced and practiced as the most basic and fundamental ingredients of our faith.