‘Might is right, and the world will only listen to those countries with real power’ were words I heard spoken by a prominent politician across the Atlantic. The idea that ‘might is right’ is completely contrary to the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

As we begin this new year, several violent conflicts still rage across our world, usually waged by the powerful and fueled by hatred. Wishing each other a happy and peaceful new year has never been more relevant in recent history.

Pope Leo in his message at Christmas reminded us that the Lord descends from heaven and humbles himself toward us. Quoting the theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, he said:

‘God is not ashamed of the lowliness of human beings. God marches right in. God is near to lowliness; he loves the lost, the neglected, the unseemly, the excluded, the weak and the broken’.

It is the mission of the Church to proclaim in word and deed the coming of God’s Kingdom, and that Kingdom is not founded on earthly power or miraculous intervention but upon the love of God made manifest in Jesus Christ. This love is rooted in mercy and compassion, and its fruits are justice, peace and communion as children of God.

As missionary disciples we are all called to embrace the Gospel and share it with others, especially those in great need. This not about fixing all the world’s problems – this not our task. As Church we are to reflect the love of God out into the world, enlightening those dark corners of humanity with God’s mercy and forgiveness.

We are all empowered by Christ himself to be agents of his Kingdom. St Teresa of Calcutta said,

‘My vocation is grounded in belonging to Jesus, and in the firm conviction that nothing will separate me from the love of Christ’.

As members of the Missio family we can be content with what has been achieved, aware that there is still much more to be done, as we pray ‘Your Kingdom come, Your Will be done’.

Fr Tony