Today's readings speak of an ever-increasing awareness of sin. Sin eventually results in being "brought very low" (Ps 79:8). Nations and people that rebel against God (see Dn 9:9) will eventually reap the harvest of sin, that is, disaster and death (see Rm 6:23). The measure that rebels measure with will eventually be measured right back to them, as Jesus says (Lk 6:38).

In the secular culture, to stand up against sin and immorality is considered an act of "hate." Yet it is not love to allow (or even encourage) a person to speed headlong toward disaster. The secular culture considers permissiveness a good thing. Holding moral standards is considered intolerance.

The true follower of Jesus can never encourage a lost sheep to wander directly into the danger of sin rather than the loving protection of the Good Shepherd. In this context, permissiveness can be seen as an act of indifference, which is the opposite of compassion. Compassion loves the sinner and hates the sin. Compassion does not judge the motivation of the sinner and does not ignore the effects of sin; rather, compassion embraces the lost sheep and stands ever-ready to rescue that sheep from the consequences of its rebellions.

Disciples of Christ, "be compassionate, as your Father is compassionate" (Lk 6:36).

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, August 25, 2014

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