From today’s Scripture: “I shall place my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles. And in his name the Gentiles will hope.” —Mt 12:18, 21

I love rooting for the underdog and the outsider. The Gentiles were some of the ultimate outsiders in Jesus’ time and place. They were not Jews, and therefore, not considered a part of the chosen people of Israel. They were scorned and treated with disdain. So, for Jesus to share himself with the Gentiles, to bring hope to them and address the injustices they experienced, was very countercultural and unexpected. The Holy Spirit was at work and, in that, hope was found.

Today we must consider who are the outsiders of our time and how we are making space for them in our communities. As individuals we cannot right the greatest wrongs, but we can unify our voices together to call for change. Sitting with those who feel lost and forgotten can renew their hope and dignity when they feel seen and heard. Remember the often sung hymn that says, “for they will know we are Christians by our love.”

Let us pray: Jesus, our hope, help us to see you in those experiencing injustice and despair. May our hearts be moved to act with love on their behalf.

Today’s author is Julia Sauter, a member of Glenmary’s Development team. She holds a master’s degree in Ethics and Social Theory from the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California.

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