Reflection March 26, 2025
Laudato Si’
Ecological Economics Ecological Economics acknowledges that the economy is a sub-system of human society, which itself is embedded within the biosphere–our common home . Actions could include sustainable production and consumption, ethical investments, divestment from fossil fuels and any activity harmful to the planet and the people, supporting circular economies, and prioritizing care labour and protecting the dignity of workers. PRAYER
Provident God, help us bring together the different fields of knowledge, including economics, and promote new models of integral development. May we work towards a new economic paradigm at the service of common good, leaving no one behind.
The Gospel of Luke 15:1-2, 11-14
Tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to Jesus, but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” So to them Jesus addressed this parable: “A man had two sons, and the younger son said to his father, ‘Father give me the share of your estate that should come to me.’ So the father divided the property between them.; After a few days, the younger son collected all his belongings and set off to a distant country where he squandered his inheritance on a life of dissipation. When he had freely spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he found himself in dire need.”
When nature is viewed solely as a source of profit and gain, this has serious consequences for society . This vision of “might is right” has engendered immense inequality, injustice, and acts of violence against the majority of humanity, since resources end up in the hands of the first comer or the most powerful: the winner takes all . Completely at odds with this model are the ideals of harmony, justice, fraternity and peace as proposed by Jesus . (LS 82) to realize what we have long taken for granted: financial resources, food, or even climate comfort. In a society where our leadership often values wealth, it’s easy to overlook those without, until you find yourself in that vulnerable position.
Climate change is undeniably affecting our world and it is happening faster than anticipated. From the heating of our oceans to extreme storms, the impact is undeniable . Those most affected by these changes are our most vulnerable, our underserved, and under resourced communities, who are the least able to adapt and even potentially survive . Statistics show that often these communities include Black, Latino, and low-income populations who are the most likely to live in areas impacted by these changes and who bear the brunt of the consequences . As we enter a new political environment, it will be important to pay attention to how environmental and social policies will potentially hurt these populations even more . Moving forward, I seek to consider all my “neighbors” in my decisions . My impacts such as recycling, limiting my food waste and water usage, choosing to buy used clothes vs . new, buying a hybrid vehicle, may be small, but they are thoughtful and deliberate. It will take the world to fight this crisis. In a time when it’s easy to think only about ourselves, it is now, more than ever, that we must choose each other, no matter what . Together we can make an impact . As our friend, Peace & Justice Promoter Sister Reg McKillip, OP said, “We believe that we are called to protect the vitality, diversity, and uniqueness of Earth and the community of life sustained here .”
From a MINISERIAL LENS: How do you consider your values and neighbors when making purchases or f inancial decisions? This week, pay attention to the plastics in your clothing like rayon, nylon, polyester, mesh, and taffeta. What alternatives might you consider? This could include thrifting and shopping at resale stores or choosing natural fabrics like cotton, ETC…
Edgewood College: Lenten Resource Booklet.