Pastor’s Corner for the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C by Rev. Fr. Nobert Munekani SJ
THE SANCTITY OF HUMAN LIFE
The sanctity of human life is a core principle for focus on the family and our societies. What could possibly be more valuable than life itself? God, our Creator and Sustainer, in sequence created the world with detail and intention. All His creation is labeled as “good”, and humanity was granted dominion over his creation (Gen 1:28-30). From the beginning of time, God has deemed human life to be valuable, powerful, and distinct from the rest of creation. Human life is separate. It is unique. It is God’s masterpiece.
We believe that human beings are created by God in His image. Therefore, every person, from conception to natural death, possesses inherent dignity and immeasurable worth—including preborn children, elderly individuals, those with special needs and others marginalized by society. Christians, then, are called to defend, protect, and value all human life.
In short, human life is sacred and respect for human life should be at the center of all we do. To put the “life ethic” into words and practice, it helps to consider where it comes from, what it looks like and how can we incorporate it into our daily lives. The shootings that have been happening in different parts of our nation including our neighborhood (Orlando East) are really disturbing. When will enough be enough? When will we as a nation take time to introspect and stop pointing fingers to one another and deal with the real causes of such brutality and violence?
Deuteronomy 32:39 teaches that God not only owns each life, but that He is responsible for the life and death of each person as well. It says “See now that I, even I, am He, and there is none that can deliver you out of my hand. “Psalm 139:16 shows that the days of each person’s life were written in God’s book before any of them came to be. As Christians we believe that human lives belong to God and only, He is responsible for the giving and taking of that life. Therefore, we as Christians and as Catholics we should condemn these ferocious acts that’s going on in our country and be ready to defend life at all costs.
As followers of Christ, we must use our words, resources, and giftings to defend life that is being devalued. Life can be devalued at any stage, beginning at the womb, and ending at the tomb. Because we are ambassadors of Christ, we have the privilege to partner with God to defend what He loves. Your words, resources, and giftings can play a crucial role in defending life. Sometimes, God can use your words, resources, and giftings to save lives. The question is are we available for that service? Our nation needs our prayers, let us take time to pray for South Africa. May God heal this nation and keep us safe.
