Friday in the Third Week

Hosea 14:1-9; Psalm 81:8-14; Mark 12:28-34

Speaking of people of courage, today is the anniversary of the death of Oscar Romero, Archbishop of San Salvador, who was assassinated while celebrating the Eucharist in 1980.  Romero was chosen archbishop largely because the religious and military hierarchies saw him as weak and “safe.”  He was awakened to the suffering of the people there, and began to speak out against the government and businesses that oppressed the vast majority of people.  He was not the only religious figure killed by death squads in El Salvador, but his conversion and his leadership continue to inspire and teach us.

Unfortunately, Romero’s death did not end oppression in El Salvador.  His life, however, continues to encourage people to take action, to live out the commandment to love God and our neighbor.  It’s not complicated, but it’s not easy.  Non-governmental organizations work in the gaps to provide local education and advocacy, while also educating those of us who live in “safer” places about the needs of those living in contexts of oppression and deprivation.

The commandment is to love God and our neighbor.  We are called today to remember and turn.  We’re called every day: “O that today to you would hearken to God’s voice!”  Today.  Today.  Love God and your neighbor - today.  By doing so, you approach the kingdom of heaven.