As we enter the fifth week of Lent, we are called to reflect deeply on how we can embody Christ’s compassion and love for those in need. In the latest episode of “Clearing the Clutter” with Deacon Paul, we hear from Marlon who emphasises the importance of listening, feeling, and extending empathy to others, mirroring the actions of Jesus. Just as Christ ministered with a calm heart and discernment, we too are invited to pause, contemplate, and be present in the moment, allowing God’s grace to guide our actions.
Transcript
The fifth Sunday of Lent’s Gospel has Jesus challenging a crowd about to stone a woman for adultery. “Let the one without sin throw the first stone.” And one by one, they walk away. Today, we see a similar rush to judgment, quick tempers and harsh words, especially online, where people are divided not only by opinions, but also by us and them camps. Sadly, I’ve seen increasing opposition directed at people with disabilities, the homeless, stateless and others. Jesus’s response offers a timeless remedy, before pointing fingers, we should first examine our own flaws. This message is crucial as we navigate a world where identity politics and unhealthy tribalism can blind us to our common humanity and the nuances of each other’s lives. To break down these barriers, it starts with self-reflection and extending the understanding to others that we hope to receive ourselves.
Hello, my name is Marlon Riley. I am a part of the Murri Ministry, a Queensland Aboriginal Catholic Ministry here in the Archdiocese of Brisbane. How can I turn my heart to those who are targets of injustice and hurt? I begin with listening, feeling, using my cultural ways of Jukurrpa, the dreaming, and the laws that tell me to feel. Doing this in the way of the Lord, the way Jesus taught us, to be compassionate, to be empathetic. And to understand people’s ways, feel their hurt, feel the injustice, but sit with them and yarn and speak about it. That’s the best way. Culturally, spiritually, faithfully, both Catholic ways, Christian ways, Aboriginal ways. That’s the only way.