The reflection below is written by Amy Finn-Schultz and excerpted from our Advent-Christmas 2020 reflection booklet. Amy is a member of L’Arche Jacksonville (FL) where she has held a number of roles, including director. She has served on the Pax Christi Florida State Council and is a graduate of the Franciscan School of Theology in California.
reflection for INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS DAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020
by Amy Finn-Schultz
Isaiah 41:13-20 | Matthew 11:11-15
For I am your God, who grasps your right hand;
It is I who says to you, “Do not fear, I will help you.” (Is 41:13)
“Whereas the peoples of the United Nations have in the Charter
reaffirmed their faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and
worth of the human person and in the equal rights of men and women
and have determined to promote social progress and better standards of life
in larger freedom…” (Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Preamble)
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, created and adopted by the United Nations over 70 years ago today, reads like an elegant instruction manual for the reign of heaven on earth. God implores us to be co-creators of the beloved community.
In today’s reading, Isaiah describes God as a leader and, more poignantly, as a friend who will take our hand and help us in making the world more beautiful, a place where the needy are given what they need. This intimate God relates to us, touches us and journeys with us.
A society with justice and equality, where the humanity of each person is recognized and protected, has no room for violence and oppression. A commitment to forgive each other our trespasses and uphold human dignity fills the reign of God so that there is only room for love and sustained peace. It is a simple truth that when the dignity of each person and respect of the earth is abandoned or forgotten, it is a challenge to all; everyone is at greater risk of oppression and violence.
How do you imagine God’s beloved community on earth?
As we wait for God to come again in intimate form, as Emmanuel, what is
one thing you can do to walk further on the path leading to this
image of community and Kin-dom?
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Find more reflections and resources for the season on our Advent 2020 webpage.