I am just a human being trying to make it in a world that is rapidly losing its understanding of being human. John Trudell
Meditation: In Hamburg, Germany last weekend, 150,000 demonstrators from all over Europe gathered to protest the G 20 gathering. Gathered were several world leaders whose political systems and decision making are increasingly oppressive and exploiting of humanity. Angry violence erupted, outrage aimlessly began to direct itself against store fronts, cars, police… “I am just a human being trying to make it in a world that is rapidly losing its understanding of being human”. In theological terms we might describe what we see as “humanity losing its soul”. The soul of humanity dies when few based on their position of power and privilege exclude and oppress the many others without having any empathy or compassion. The soul of humanity dies when those in power lose touch with their own humanity and vulnerability. This is when the bodies and souls of other humans become random objects that are being manipulated, exploited, gotten rid or taken advantage of. This is what the erupting rage in Hamburg last weekend was about. Yes, we humans can and need to find more constructive ways of expressing our sadness and rage than smashing windows and burning cars. However, sometimes quiet tears are not enough to get the attention of the rest of humanity that something is terribly wrong.
Prayer: God of humanity, You are weeping. You are touched and deeply moved seeing us humans lose our understanding of what it means to be human. When we elect, tolerate or support world leaders who have lost their souls, You weep. We cry out: “Come and see”. Free us from the bondage of those who oppress, kill and don’t care. God, something is terribly wrong. Have mercy on us. Amen
Jesus saw her weeping, and he saw how the people with her were weeping also; his heart was touched, and he was deeply moved. “Where have you buried him?” he asked them. “Come and see, Lord,” they answered. Jesus wept. John 11:33-35
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