Is God just? A reflection for the 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time

    Christians often claim that God is just. In a world that can often seem unjust, how can we make that claim? Today’s readings tackle that question by looking at different dimensions of God’s justice. Each passage illustrates how God’s justice is intertwined with His mercy, faithfulness, and the call for humility.
    In Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18, we see a clear affirmation of God’s justice through His attentive care for the oppressed and the marginalized. Sirach highlights that God does not overlook the cries of those who suffer injustice; instead, He hears them and responds. This understanding of justice is rooted in compassion. It shows us that God’s justice is not merely about enforcing laws or punishing wrongdoing, but is deeply connected to His love for humanity. When we say that God is just, we acknowledge that He actively seeks to right wrongs and uphold the dignity of every person. His justice is a reflection of His character, which is fundamentally good and loving.
    In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, St. Paul reflects on his life and ministry, expressing confidence in the just reward that awaits him from the Lord, the righteous judge. This passage emphasizes that God’s justice is also about the fulfillment of His promises. St. Paul assures us that God will reward those who remain faithful, reinforcing the idea that divine justice is ultimately about restoration and hope. When we say that God is just, we affirm that He is faithful to His word, and that He will bring about justice in His perfect timing. This encourages us to persevere in our faith, trusting that our efforts are not in vain, and that God will ultimately set things right.
    Luke 18:9-14 gives us the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector and illustrates a critical aspect of God’s justice: humility. The Pharisee, who is self-righteous and proud, fails to recognize his need for God’s mercy, while the tax collector humbly acknowledges his sinfulness and seeks forgiveness. Jesus teaches that it is the humble who are justified before God. This parable highlights that God’s justice is not based on human standards or achievements, but on a heart that is open to His grace. When we say that God is just, we recognize that He values humility and sincerity over pride and self-righteousness. His justice invites us to come to Him with honest hearts, seeking mercy and reconciliation.
Together, these readings affirm that God is just because He is compassionate, faithful, and values humility. His justice is an expression of His love for us and His desire for all people to experience dignity and restoration. It reassures us that God is actively involved in our lives, listening to our cries for help and working to bring about justice in a world often marked by inequality and suffering.
As we reflect on these truths, we can ask ourselves how we can embody God’s justice in our own lives. Are we attentive to the needs of those who are marginalized or oppressed? Do we approach God with humility, recognizing our own need for His mercy? Are we committed to living out our faith in a way that reflects God’s justice and compassion toward others?
    When we say that God is just, we affirm His character as a loving and compassionate God who seeks to restore and uplift humanity. His justice is a source of hope and encouragement, reminding us that He is always at work in our lives and in the world. Let us strive to reflect this divine justice in our actions, living with humility and compassion as we seek to follow the example of Christ.

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