I have spent the week at Acton University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The Acton Institute, founded by Fr. Robert Sirico, is an organization that exists “for the study of religion and freedom.” While I am no libertarian by contemporary definition, I believe that Acton engages scholars of every ilk on important matters facing the church in the 21st century.
Of the many topics covered this week, I have been most compelled by calls to revisit and refine my thoughts about the dignity and worth of every individual, made in God’s image, for God’s glory and purposes. It is easy to dismiss those who are marginalized, particularly in a city like New York where I live, based on one’s busy schedule or (frankly) apathy. I am encouraged to think more critically about the urban poor and how to work to release the oppressed from their plight of injustice.
I am increasingly aware of differing philosophies to achieve the aforementioned goal—all based on Christian thought, Christian logic, and a thorough reading of the scriptures. My personal goal over the next month is to reconsider the Shema (Deut. 6: love God, love others) and prevailing social policy in an effort to begin a conversation among my friends and colleagues aimed at bringing Christ-like effectiveness to this profound social problem.
May God bless our best efforts.
