Countering Greed and Corruption with Compassion and Unconditional Love

Summary of a Fr. Gerry Creedon homily from June 5, 2005

"Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" Matt 9, 10

How often have you heard a sermon on taxes? This is seen as too political a topic. Republicans talk about tax and spend democrats, while democrats talk of borrow and spend republicans. Since Jesus brings up the question, I thought I might add a word on this hot topic. Under the rubric of the common good our church supports the duty of the payment of taxes that are adequate and equitable. If we have difficulty with the spending priorities of government it is our civic responsibility to advocate for needed changes.

Jesus recognized that there were ethical issues involved with public trust. Matthew was viewed as a public sinner not only because he collected taxes for the hated Romans, but also because he exacted more than the quota and kept the excess for himself. In those days people who betrayed their public responsibility did not write books and go on the speakers' circuit. They were shunned, excommunicated. This is why the Pharisees questioned the company Jesus kept.

What was Jesus' response to graft and corruption? He sat at table in Matthew's house. He offered table fellowship. "Go and learn the meaning of the words, 'It is mercy I desire, not sacrifice'".

Jesus believed that evil is not eradicated by sanctions and penalties. Sin is rooted out by mercy. He offered unconditional love.

There was a time when our Catholic tradition was characterized by compassion. All kinds of strange birds could call our church home. Today some feel that we should turn our church into a sect where only the squeaky clean find acceptance. It is high time to listen to the word of Hosea, "For it is love I desire, not sacrifice".

Unconditional love does not mean we can do as we please without accountability. Jesus believed that it is love that transforms. The story of another tax collector, Zaccheus, who ran up a tree in the fringes of the community to catch a glimpse of Jesus, shows his surprise at being told. "Hurry down, I will dine in your house tonight". The experience of graceful welcome calls him out of greed to a life of sharing and generosity.

Let us pray, as we approach the table of fellowship, for a church that better mirrors the mercy of Jesus so that we may turn our punitive society into a place of compassion.