Retribution. Revenge. "Just Deserts."

On the face of it, today's first reading, about Abraham's defense of Sodom, makes God out to be filled with vengeance, but Abraham talks God into being more merciful, more reasonable, to protect the innocent from unfairly being included in the guilty.

We can read this in many ways, but, in the end, Abraham's questioning of God is a deep reflection of a question we should ask ourselves every day: what does justice look like in our homes, our city, our country, and our world?

Sr. Mary McGlone puts it this way: 

Abraham is ultimately asking, "Does evil rule the world? Do the innocent make any difference in the world?" That's a perennial question — especially sharp in times of war, dictatorship, corruption and the victimization of the weak by the strong. So Abraham puts God on trial: "Should not the judge of all the world act with justice?" 

For me, at least, this is a daily test of my faith. Let me give you a quick example: I am committed to our Catholic social justice teachings about the dignity of work and the rights of workers. But I want the biggest discount on products I purchase, so I might overlook the working conditions of the people who produce those goods. After all, if the migrant farmers in California were paid more, my avocados would cost more. Or my phone. Or my clothing. Or many of the other goods that I enjoy. So maybe I hedge on those social justice principles a bit in order to get a better deal.

That's just one example, but it demonstrates the balance that I believe we're called to evaluate in today's first reading. What does justice look like to me? And how do I make that a reality in my world? 

In the end, the story shows God relented under Abraham's questioning. But perhaps it wasn't God's mind that changed, but instead that Abraham's mercy and compassion were deepened as he came to the defense of someone who might otherwise be overlooked. Perhaps by seeing and advocating for justice for the marginalized our faith and compassion will also be enhanced.

What does justice look like for you?

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Rising Kindergarten through rising 4th grade students, take a “Road Trip” with us and join us for Vacation Bible School!  VBS will take place at Saint Andrew School on August 10, 11, and 12 from 5:00pm-7:30pm. Dinner will be served.The cost is $75/student or $100/family.  Tell your friends and neighbors, all children in the community are welcome. Spots are limited, register today!