Good Friday Reflection

“Is not this the fast that pleases me: to break unjust fetters, to undo the thongs of the yoke? To let the oppressed go free and break all yokes? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and shelter the homeless poor?” Isaiah 58:6-7

My calling in life has been to help people of faith and conscience in our democracy push for changes in government policy that are important to people in poverty. So I’m keenly aware that the repentance of Lent has a political dimension - letting the oppressed go free and feeding the hungry.

In recent decades, we have witnessed great progress against poverty, so we know that we can make further progress. But we are currently headed in a different direction, that includes harsh policies toward people in need in America and worldwide.  

Jesus’ journey toward the cross began when he “set his face for Jerusalem” (Luke 9:16) where he would confront and be executed by the religious and political rulers of Judea. They served Caesar, while Jesus offered a reign of love and justice.  

The forgiving love of God invites us to turn away from our shortcomings and live in the Spirit. Through advocacy, demonstrations, and active participation in elections we can also pull our nation into better alignment with God’s coming kingdom.  

So, we pray: Let your kingdom come. Let your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.