Habakkuk 1
The just one, because of his faith, shall live.
Readings for Sunday: Habakkuk, 2 Timothy, Luke
Reflection:
Today, on this Respect Life Sunday, we pause to remember that the right to life is the foundation of all human dignity. If we fail to protect innocent life at its most vulnerable stage—at conception—then every other right becomes fragile. Once a society decides that life is valuable only when it is wanted, then life at any stage can be discarded. That is why we now see euthanasia and other grave attacks against human life becoming more acceptable.
The numbers are staggering. Since 1973, there have been over 65 million abortions in our country and more than a billion worldwide. In fact, estimates vary from as little as one billion to as many as three billion worldwide; many sources indicate that 2.5 billion is a fair estimate. These numbers far exceed the casualties of all the wars of the last century. As the prophet Habakkuk cried, “Violence! Why do you let me see ruin?” We too cry out at the immorality before us.
We love our nation, but we cannot close our eyes to these evils. Sin always carries consequences. A society that destroys its future in the womb cannot flourish. As Mother Teresa once said, “If a mother can kill her own child, what is left but for us to kill one another?”
What, then, is our response? Not silence. It is tempting to say, “I am personally against abortion, but I will not tell others what to do.” Yet abortion is the taking of human life. As disciples of Jesus, we are called to bear witness—even when it costs us. We must foster a culture of life beginning in our families, supporting women in crisis pregnancies, and offering love both to mother and child. We must also live chastity, strengthening true love that protects and cherishes life. Above all, we act in faith. Even faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains, for it is God who works through us.
Reflection Questions
- On this Respect Life Sunday, ask yourself: how will I respond as a disciple of Jesus?