The United States Supreme Court recently ruled on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which shifts abortion from being a national law to one that is determined at the state level (USCCB fact sheet here.)
This decision has led to lots of reactions and further emphasized the level of discord around any topic that may be divisive in our current time. I have a perspective on the issue of abortion and it has not changed with time, however, the way in which I think of the issue and discuss it with others has changed a lot in the last few years (praise be to God!). Pope Francis’ tweet today (posted below) so succinctly articulates the cause of my varying levels of joy and pain with the decision, the root being the level to which I can witness brotherly love amidst my neighbors’ difficulty:
Considering the “other side” is essential for any non-trivial communication. I’ve learned however, to choose the right context for communication, especially on controversial topics. I’ve also learned that it is OK to choose to not participate in a space, or exit a space (respectfully, which is usually silently) rather than engage when the atmosphere is not right.
I like the word “dialogue” because unlike “discussion” or “debate”, the goal of a dialogue is for perspective-sharing and an increased understanding for those involved. Dialogue does not occur to “convert” or “change” the other.
Here’s a nice excerpt from the USCCB materials on Faithful Citizenship regarding Civil Dialogue, which seem to be more relevant every year (emphasis is mine):
“As Catholics, our strong tradition of social teaching compels us to be actively engaged in the building up of our communities. This is achieved by being involved in the political process—and yet today, many shy away from such involvement because our national and local conversations are filled with vitriol and harsh language, often directed at people themselves. When personal attacks replace honest debate, no one wins.…
This means that we must treat everyone as worthy of being at the table, worthy of our respect, and worthy of being heard. In short, it means treating everyone as our neighbor.
We undermine our commitment to human life and dignity when we fail to see the dignity of those who have a different viewpoint. We must detach from the bitterness that surrounds us and seek a better path. A commitment to civil dialogue can help us make real and authentic human connections, which breaks down the barriers that divide us. “
USCCB Civil Dialogue Bulletin Insert
Since my early adulthood, by the grace of God, I have learned to listen and learned to be more empathic, especially to the “other” side, whoever that entails. I must if I want to profess a commitment to the human dignity of all!
I am still in a work in progress and pray that I will always be able to look back and see growth behind me and the potential for more growth in front of me. There are valid concerns to be found in other perspectives, and the work is not done until the End!
While I have grown in compassion to those with differing views, I have grown more critical toward those with whom I agree but who speak and act with malice toward others, especially those who profess to follow Christ. When I encounter conversations where Christians disparage others, I think of this excerpt from the Book of Revelation on lukewarm believers:
“I know your works; I know that you are neither cold nor hot.* I wish you were either cold or hot.
So, because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.
For you say, ‘I am rich and affluent and have no need of anything,’ and yet do not realize that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.
Revelation 3: 15-17
To take a stance that is political and happens to align to some elements of the Christian faith is the lukewarm path. It is comfortable, convenient, and easy.
Refuse this stance!
If I do all things on the “right” side, but am without love, ultimately I am simply a loud noisemaker (my take on 1 Corinthians 13:1). And one that risks being “spit out” at the end.
Let Us Pray:
Holy Spirit, stoke the fire of my heart, that it would burn brightly and perpetually in love for You and for my neighbors. Purify whatever is faulty that I may be a worthy offering to you at the end.
May I be a “fool” on your account, weak and in disrepute to the world.
When ridiculed, inspire me to bless and respond gently.
When persecuted, remind me that You alone endures.
Let me boast in nothing but the cross of the Lord, for which I have never deserved but receive as my most precious gift.
(Inspired by 1 Corinthians 4: 10-14)