This is difficult to write. It is difficult to have any coherent words regarding what is going on at the border. My mind has been a jumble for days as I think about the plight of refugees, the wailing of terrified children, and the inhumanity of it all.
Over and over, the same words echo in my ears. It is on repeat -- on surround sound -- written on my soul.
And the king will say to them in reply, 'Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.'
Matthew 25:40
Today, my priest said something that I felt was poignant, simple, and crucial to remember during this time. He said, we need to take off our political hat and forever put on our Christian hat.
All of our decisions, ideologies, and leanings should be viewed through the lens of the Gospels. Jesus -- our true master and teacher -- has an answer for it all. The King of the Universe should be our guide in every decision we make, in every word that escapes our lips, in every thought of our minds and hearts.
My heart aches for the human rights crisis going on at our borders. I pray that our policy makers view each person with dignity and humanity. And I also pray that we end the barbaric practices going on at the border. And I pray that my heart remains charitable and loving -- even towards those who have different views than myself and especially towards those towards whom I have anger.
On this Holy Sabbath Day and on the Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist -- I pray for peace and that hearts are turned towards the Gospel. Amen.