BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO HUNGER and thirst for righteousness , for they will be filled

Reflecting on this beatitude, in the light of Pope Francis' teaching in his Apostolic Exhortation Gaudete et Exsultate ( Rejoice and be glad ). Hunger and thirst are intense experiences, since they involve basic needs and our instinct for survival. There are those who desire justice and yearn for righteousness with similar intensity. Jesus says that they will be satisfied, for sooner or later justice will come. We can cooperate to make that possible, even if we may not always see the fruit of our efforts.

Jesus offers a Justice other than that of the world, so often marred by petty interests and manipulated in various ways. Experience shows how easy it is to become mired in corruption,ensnared in the daily politics where everything becomes business. How many people suffer injustice, standing by powerlessly while others divvy up the good things of this life. Some give up fighting for real justice and opt to follow in the train of the winners. This has nothing to do with the hunger and thirst for justice that Jesus praises.

However, true justice comes about in people's lives when they themselves are just in their decisions; it is expressed in their pursuit of justice for the poor and the weak. While it is true that the word "justice" can be a synonym for faithfulness to God's will in every aspect of our life, if we give the word too general a meaning, we forget that it is shown especially in justice towards those who are most vulnerable: "Seek justice, correct oppression; defend the fatherless, plead for the widow" ( Isaiah 1:17).

To hunger and thirsting for righteousness: that's Holiness. What else do I seek if not to be holy? 

My Lord and my all, help me to be faithful and sensitive to the situations around me...may I render my help to myself and those who need me.

[ Thanks for reading this article: Samuel Nyonje Muhanji wishes you fruitful weekend]

Further reading : Francis, Rejoice and be glad: Apostolic Exhortation Gaudete et Exsultate. no 77-79

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