Being Part of the Solution: Justice, Silence and Faith
Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time – October 19, 2025
The one-minute version of today’s readings could be written as follows: persevere in prayer and actions for justice, and eventually you will succeed!! But today’s readings are not so much about the big cosmic and national battles of nations. And there are several elements in the readings that are not immediately grasped by the casual reader.
In the first reading, we note that people responded bravely to defend their community after being attacked; somehow was a long battle: likewise, for us, there will be times we feel like it is useless (the arms of Moses grew heavy).
Moses grew tired, and the fight turned against Israel. We should see in this our battle today: the issues undermining our society such as domestic violence (especially against women), youth drug addiction, immorality and life issues (abortion, capital punishment, etc.).
But who can be bothered standing up to fight for peace? Do we think: “Ah, nobody will listen.” What is important in the battle is not that we always win, but that we maintain the pressure, we remain consistent. A classic case in the USA is the pro-life movement: agree or disagree, they have for many years highlighted the rights of the unborn child; they seemed to be losing.
But now there is significant progress: and along the way they created opportunities for other people to join in and assist the “fight”. The perseverance of many and the suffering by some high-profile peaceful protesters no doubt stirred more people to assist. At the same time, more and more people are being forced to reflect on the issue: which will lead some to conversion.
In Kenya, three years ago, a major victory was won by the indigenous people of Bungoma, Western Kenya, granting their land back to them after several decades of being displaced.
Sometimes we have family or friends who say: I don’t want a party for my birthday, it’s just another day, bla, bla, bla. But I like to say (especially in religious life where we don’t have many parties), “but my friend, it is not just you: it’s also for us!” Ha, ha.
Likewise, the story of the poor widow highlights another very important element of our perseverance: fighting for justice for ourselves is also a ministry that can bring about conversion for others: in this case the “unjust judge”: perhaps it will be our employer, or our husband/ wife, or our insurance company or local hospital, or school-board.
In Kenya, we have occasional cases where individuals have taken the Government to court for abuse of power, unjust or illegal laws. After one or more years, the judge rules in our favour.
There are other battles, however, which require a lot of patience and gentleness: many parents have been confronted by stubborn children or stubborn spouses. Anger and bullying doesn’t usually work for the long term.
What wins the day is patience and gentle words: when a child is stubborn it is often due to fear. Love, in the form of gentle words and waiting a little may require help from others. There are times when we are unjustly mocked and ridiculed on a daily basis. How can we fight and win the battle? Let’s learn from the life of Socrates.
Who would have expected that the philosopher Socrates, known for his culture, wisdom, and powerful words, would live in an environment filled with shouting, ignorance, and the wrath of his wife? This woman was known for her sharp tongue, strength and power, forcing Socrates to leave at dawn every day and return after sunset. Yet Socrates says of her: “I am indebted to this woman. Without her, I would not have learned that wisdom lies in silence and happiness lies in sleep.” Socrates’ calm and quiet manner led to his wife’s death from a heart attack. Yes, she died after starting a dispute with Socrates. Her husband maintained silence, stillness, and peace of mind. But she was like a volcano, which caused severe pain in her heart and she died.
The Staff of God represents the power and presence of God for the people in their time of need. This Staff was previously used to strike the rock at Massah to provide water for the Israelites.
When people mock us, our “arms” can also fall down. So, it’s important we are supported by others to “hold our arms up”. When we ordinary people, yes, you and I with our many weaknesses and failings, when we persevere in living the Gospel messages, we are like the men holding up the arms of Moses.
This week, can we reflect on whether we are the “unjust judge.” Are there people pestering us for a change? Likewise, are we an elder ‘Moses’ able to encourage others to keep going in the fight to protect our society from selfish laws/ actions that create or entrench some in poverty.
Finally, are we able to stand up and defend our society against immorality and promote life?
The only way to NOT to lose our faith, and find joy in life, is to be part of the solution.
By Gerard Conlan, OMI
