)June 30. SEE. The prophet Amos was relaying the words of God to his people, expressing God’s disappointment in his people’s actions. Isn’t it like that in families too, where members, youth and children, have been taught and warned? If they still disobey, parents or elders have a right to punish them. The same applies to teachers and schools. In our day discipline has become a problem, as with a strong societal focus on children’s rights the rights of those in authority are often rejected. Maintaining law and order in a loving way with a focus on good and healthy relationships remains the responsibility of fathers and mothers in particular.
JUDGE. Reflect, share. Scripture. “You only have I known of all the families of the earth, therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities. O Israel because I will do this to you, prepare to meet your God!” Amos :1-8. Pope Francis: It is essential to help children and adolescents realise that misbehaviour has consequences. They need to be encouraged to put themselves in other people’s shoes and to acknowledge the hurt they have caused. Punishments for aggressive, antisocial conduct can serve this purpose. It is important to train children firmly to ask forgiveness and repair harm done to others. AL 268. Pope Leo: “The civilization of love will not arise from a single or spectacular gesture, but from the sum total of small and steadfast acts of fidelity that serve as a bulwark against dehumanization.” (par. 213)
ACT AND PRAY. Consider how the focus on dignity of an individual person also needs to have a social dimension. Pray for the needs of families. On this day in our country pray and act for all who are suffering indignity.
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