Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Brian’s Reflection: Thursday, November 13, 2008


I don't really view communism as a bad thing.

- Whoopi Goldberg, actor, born on this day, 1955


We Americans (most of us) tend to shudder at the word “communism”. Or it’s apparent cousin, Socialism. Devious people tried to discredit Obama by linking him to either one. But remember: “communism” is from the same root as “communion”. It comes from a 13th century usage, ultimately from the Latin, meaning “shared duties”.

Now, what’s wrong with that?? I think Jesus preached, and early Christianity did, “shared duties”, leading to the benefit of the whole community. If Communism tends to be reviled, it is because we remember only the abuse of the system. The same is true with any social or political system ….. and we are experiencing it now with “capitalism”. People have taken it over and perverted it’s essential focus on the welfare of the whole community, the whole people. There is no reason that either Communism or Capitalism can’t fulfill it’s essence as a way to provide, by shared common duties, for the welfare of the whole people.

“Communion” is at the heart of sacramental life. The sharing of Life (God’s, and ours). The sharing of gifts and abilities. The sharing of each others’ sorrows and joys.

Forget the “bad” remembrances of Communism. And of Capitalism, through which we suffer now. Let’s all focus on the “shared duties” of being a global community. As I understand the Gospel, and the “Kingdom of God”, A global community centered in compassion is God’s hope for the World community.

Brian+

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