In any given situation, which would you choose: God’s laws or man-made laws? - Daily Reflections August 10,2014

FAITH IN MAN-MADE LAWS

 

Following on from yesterday’s reflection, I would like to ask what the nature of the so-called “right to bear arms” amendment in the Constitution really means. It was passed over 200 years ago when there was no such thing as an ammunition clip capable of holding tens of rounds of ammunition. It was passed at a time when guns are shot once and then you had to virtually stop and reload them before firing again. I would like to see someone make the argument that that is all that the amendment applies to, and thus, all the modern military arsenals would be out of reach to ordinary citizens. Modern weapons are designed as assault weapons and not for defense purposes. I am sure that the intention of the “right to bear arms” amendment had defense in mind, not aggression. If it is the latter, then the amendment is about as immoral as one possibly could be.

       In the Gospel today, Jesus reaches out to catch Peter from sinking into the water as his faith wavered. My faith in the humanity of the U.S. Constitution’s amendment relating to the right to bear arms has totally disappeared. Not even Jesus could resurrect it. My faith in the lawmakers to act responsibly is not far behind and can be redeemed only if they act quickly (by the time you are reading this, all assault weapons should be outlawed) and decisively. Without such action, no politician in the U.S. can claim to hold the moral ground. If such a measure is defeated on the floor of the Houses, then at least the people would know who among the politicians need to be thrown out at the next election. There are no more excuses available to anyone on this matter.

       Jesus never compromises the truth in His ministry. He is not afraid to challenge the status quo. He is not concerned with popularity or what others may think of Him. He only knows what He must do to be faithful to His Father’s will and to the truth. Let us all pray that we will be as committed to a life of holiness and grace as Jesus was. Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL

 

REFLECTION QUESTION: In any given situation, which would you choose: God’s laws or man-made laws?

 

Jesus, You never contemplated acting against the truth or dignity of a human person. Help me to be always faithful in protecting and promoting the same in my life.