Does “the call to justice” include even our finances, how we earn and spend our money, and how we take care of the environment? Of course!
All the parts of economic life are opportunities to seek justice and pursue peace. Let’s remember though, that our ethical responsibility is not just avoiding evil, but doing right, especially for the weak and vulnerable. Decisions about the use of our money, for example, have moral implications: Are our decisions creating and preserving high quality jobs at living wages? Are they building up our community through the goods and services they provide? Do policies and decisions reflect respect for Life and dignity, promote peace, and preserve God’s creation?
While economic returns are important, they should not take precedence over the rights of workers or protection of the environment. All of our economic decisions are properly seen in the light of the Catholic call to protect Life, defend those who are poor, and seek the common good. These decisions either promote human dignity or undermine it … there is nothing neutral about them.
As consumers, we can promote either social justice or injustice. This means that in our affluent culture, which relentlessly suggests that “what we have” defines “who we are,” we are called to live more simply. When we purchase goods and services, we can choose to support companies that defend Life, treat workers fairly, protect creation, and respect other basic moral values at home and abroad. We can also make conscious efforts to consume less and waste less. All of this falls under the umbrella of “taking what we celebrate on Sunday at Mass out into the world every other day.”
Let us pray. “Lord, may we live your Gospel with courage, constancy, and love. May we be open to the challenge of your call to true freedom. May we be faithful to you in our daily choices and decisions. May we make your love known through our words and actions. May your blessing be upon us, now and forever. Amen.”
