He said to them, “Whose image is this and whose inscription?” They replied, “Caesar’s.” At that he said to them, “Then repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.” (Gospel for Oct. 22, Mt 22:20-21)
Above all things, we have a duty to do as Christ enjoined us and give “to God what belongs to God.” However, Catholics also have a moral duty to be good citizens and take part in their communities. As good citizens, we must work peacefully to ensure our laws are just. Let us never approve or ignore injustice in our societies, especially when human life or dignity is at stake.
This month, I challenge you to make some specific effort to defend human life in your nation or your community — whether through charitable work, writing a letter, or praying outside an abortion facility. Second, I challenge you to participate in the Faith in Action Novena for Life program.
Have you become complacent about defending human life? Do you recognize the tragedy of legal abortion, but fail to do much about it? Do you remember in prayer those whose lives and dignity are compromised by unfortunate circumstances or the oppression of bad laws?