September Virtue of the Month: Justice

September Virtue of the Month: Justice

“Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”
-Matthew 5:6

Justice is often represented by a scale because it helps us weigh what is right and fair and to act accordingly. In ancient times, people thought that ideal justice was blind, blind to influence or flattery. Christian justice sees with the eyes of the heart, animated and motivated by charity.

Justice enables one to give each, beginning with God, what is due him.  Justice is the cardinal virtue that perfects our will and all our relationships with others, including family, country, and Church. It disposes us to respect the rights and dignity of others, leading to harmony and equality in human interaction. Justice toward God is the virtue of religion. The just Christian is motivated by charity, a sincere will to not only give to others what is due to him, but also to will the good for him.  

A Note about Speech: Each person has a right to a good reputation. A common way that we sin against justice is in speech.  

• Defamation is openly taking away from someone’s character– i.e. a false statement posted publicly.
• Detraction is privately taking from someone’s reputation.
• Gossip is conversing maliciously about a person.
• Ridicule is heaping insults publicly on another.
• Cursing is uttering evil against someone, either ordering it or wishing it.

Tips for Taming the Tongue:

• T    Is it True?
• H    Is it Helpful?
• I    Is this Inspiring?
• N    Is this Necessary?
• K    Is this Kind?

Pray an Act of Justice
You are the Author of all life, and I give You praise.
Help me see and serve You in everyone I meet today. Amen.