Sometimes problems are so big, we are paralyzed into inaction. The battle over the protection of the unborn. Mass shootings. Racism. The demonization of immigrants. The vitriol in our political system. What can I do that would make a difference in the vast swell of man’s inhumanity to man? As an individual, our personal behavior appears immaterial on a national or global level. But step back into our personal circle of influence. Can we have an impact in our homes, on our street, or in our neighborhood? Could followers of Christ collectively rehumanize society? Just as the societal problems exacerbated by a divisive culture are too immense for an individual to solve, neither can they be thoroughly analyzed in one article. But as a people called to love and respect each other as fellow image-bearers of God, we’ve got to make a start. We’ve got to rehumanize in order to see people clearly, not as the “faceless” other.

.....

... look to Jesus as an example of embracing a culture of encounter, from talking with the woman at the well to eating dinner with tax collectors and sinners. Regardless of differences in culture, religion, and gender, He sought out others and treated them with deep respect. At the Last Supper, Jesus said, “I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another” (John 13:34). Love one another. Simple to comprehend, but difficult to execute. Nevertheless, as Catholic Christians, we must follow His command. We can rehumanize ourselves and our culture, decrease division, and reach out to the marginalized when we encounter, listen, empathize, dialogue, and love.

More From North Texas Catholic: