It is not the custom of the Romans to hand over a man without giving him an opportunity to defend himself in front of his accusers. (Acts. 25:16)
Today’s reading about Paul’s right to a fair trial is still upheld in our U. S. Constitution. No matter how horrible the crime, the accused is guaranteed the right to trial by a jury of peers. We don’t usually have to deal with criminal activity. However, how easily we seem to get our moral hackles up and become judge and jury in day-to-day circumstances. Pope Francis urges us to refrain from judgement and condemnation, “to accept the good in every person and to spare him any suffering that might be caused by our partial judgement, our presumption to know everything about him.” Therein lies the challenge.
-Sr. Barbara Jean Franklin, ASC
This reflection comes from the Easter Reflections, prepared by the Precious Blood Family of communities:
Adorers of the Blood of Christ (US Region)
Missionaries of the Precious Blood (Atlantic, Cincinnati & Kansas City Provinces)
Sisters of the Most Precious Blood (O’Fallon, MO)
Sisters of the Precious Blood (Dayton, OH)
Sisters of Saint Mary of Oregon
Easter Reflections is available for printing here.
