No To An Economy Of Exclusion
The invisible marginalized are caught in the web of a maze, a virtual dead end, verses a labyrinth where there would be a potential pathway out. In this maze, the colors of power (orange) and wealth (green) appear to surround those living in poverty like a vise, choking-off any potential they might strive to pursue.
53. Just as the commandment “Thou shalt not kill” sets a clear limit in order to safeguard the value of human life, today we also have to say “thou shalt not” to an economy of exclusion and inequality. Such an economy kills. How can it be that it is not a news item when an elderly homeless person dies of exposure, but it is news when the stock market loses two points? This is a case of exclusion. Can we continue to stand by when food is thrown away while people are starving? 1.
‘Bless me Father for I have sinned’….for the times when the ‘stuff’ of my life becomes more important than the people both in my life and those surrounding my life. I might not be the one who cries over a dip in the stock market when the numbers begin to go south, but by no means am I exempt from the perspective of life that demonstrates values that are less than Christ-like. Whether it is by wasting food or wasting opportunities to help, only I know what is my personal economy of exclusion. Isn’t it great to have an all forgiving God, who helps to open our hearts to the important ways and means of inclusion.
1. APOSTOLIC EXHORTATION EVANGELII GAUDIUM OF THE HOLY FATHER FRANCISTO THE BISHOPS, CLERGY, CONSECRATED PERSONS AND THE LAY FAITHFUL ON THE PROCLAMATION OF THE GOSPEL IN TODAY’S WORLD
Have so enjoyed Sr Ellen’s artwork and reflections on “The Joy of the Gospel” and was surprised to see she is continuing into the Easter Season–added bonus!! this one is especially poignant and her image of the maze vs a labyrinth is powerful. Thank you for your beautiful gift, Sr Ellen. I hope you thought of sending it on to Pope Francis, who I’ll bet, would be surprised.
The image of the maze….the graphic of the green and orange (money & power) encircling snake-like, trapping and suffocating people, is dramatic and powerful. One picture is worth a thousand words!! Thanks, Ellen, for sharing your gifts and spirit.