Jesus' Expansion
The Gospel of Matthew relates that when told his mother and brothers were waiting to see him, Jesus replied, "Who is my mother and who are my brothers?" Stretching his hand over his disciples he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother, and my sister, and mother." Pope Benedict XVI stated that this dictum of Jesus brought the fourth commandment to a new and higher level. By doing God's will, any person can become part of the universal family of Jesus. Thus, the fourth commandment's responsibilities extend to the greater society and requires respect for "legitimate social authorities". The Catechism specifies "duties of citizens and nations", which Kreeft summarizes as:
- "Obedience and honor" to "all who for our good have received authority in society from God".
- "Payment of taxes, exercising the right to vote and defending one's country".
- "An obligation to be vigilant and critical", which requires citizens to criticize that which harms human dignity and the community.
- "A duty to disobey" civil authorities and directives that are contrary to the moral order.
- "To practice charity", which is a "necessity for any working family or society"; it is the "greatest social commandment" and requires people to love God and neighbor.
- "To welcome the foreigner" who is in need of security and livelihood that cannot be found in his own country.
- "An obligation for rich nations to help poor nations", especially in times of "immediate need".
- "An expectation for families to help other families".
Read more about this topic: Catholic Doctrine Regarding The Ten Commandments, Fourth Commandment
Famous quotes containing the word expansion:
“The fundamental steps of expansion that will open a person, over time, to the full flowering of his or her individuality are the same for both genders. But men and women are rarely in the same place struggling with the same questions at the same age.”
—Gail Sheehy (20th century)