JUSTICE
“We can have environmental justice and positive economic development that generates jobs for communities, but at the same time fosters a cleaner environment. They are not mutually exclusive.” – Damu Smith
When justice no longer dwells in the land, the Bible tells us that life itself is endangered. Everything is interconnected, and that genuine care for our own lives and our relationships with nature is inseparable from fraternity, justice and faithfulness to others. (Pope Francis, LS #70)
“But let justice run its course like water, and righteousness be like an ever-flowing river.” (Amos 5:24, Christian Community Bible)
REFLECTION: Whether we are rich or poor, great or insignificant, equal treatment must be given to all. In the eyes of God, we are all equal. This is the reason why we need to imitate Him by showing respect to each other and acknowledging each one as equal beings. We should never look down on people and other creations which to our standard are lower than us because no one deserves to be belittled. God manifested fairness and justice by creating everyone equally. Justice and equality prevail when we do what is right and fair, and when we respect others.
Key Statement: Justice and equality prevail when we do what is right and fair, and when we respect others.
Personal Challenge: My promotion of justice includes respecting the environment.
PRAYER
Merciful God, thank You for engraving Your law of love into our hearts that enable us to work for peace, justice and integrity of creation. Harden not the hearts of those who refuse to be involved in promoting environmental justice that respect the rights of the land, the air, the water and everything that gives and nurtures life in all its forms. Amen.
ROMANO M. BULATAO is a Professor at Saint Louis University (SLU), Baguio City. He completed his AB Philosophy in 1990 at the Saint Anthony Mary Claret College (SAMCC), Quezon City; MA Religious Studies in 2003, and MA Philosophy in 2014, both in SLU; Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Theology, Major in Missiology, at the Institute for Consecrated Life in Asia (ICLA) – SAMCC in 2021. Mr. Bulatao served as the Department Head of Religion at SLU (2006-2009); and President of the Kapatirang Claretiano Inc. – Pangasinan Chapter (KCI-PC), since 2011. He is the author of the book entitled Touching Thoughts A-Z published in 2009; translator of the Novena to Saint Anthony Mary Claret (from Pangasinan language to English) published in 2015; and the Novena kay San Antonio Maria Claret (from Pangasinan language to Filipino) published in 2020 by the Claretian Publications. ((romanobulatao@yahoo.com)
