MAN’S ACTIVITY THROUGHOUT THE WORLD
This chapter explores the significance of human activity in light of the tremendous progress and advancements made possible by science and technology. It emphasizes the harmony between human endeavor and God’s will, asserting that human progress is a sign of God’s grace and a fulfillment of His divine plan.
- Human progress and mastery over nature: Humanity has consistently strived to improve its living conditions through tireless effort. With the help of science and technology, man has extended his dominion over nature, achieving feats that were once attributed to divine powers.
- Questions about the meaning and purpose of human activity: These advancements lead to questions about the meaning and value of this feverish activity. What is its purpose? How should these achievements be used?
- The Church’s Role: The Church, guided by God’s word and moral principles, seeks to illuminate humanity’s path with revealed truth. While not always having solutions to specific problems, the Church provides guidance based on divine revelation and human experience.
- Harmony between human activity and God’s will: Human activity, when considered in itself, is in accordance with God’s will. Man, created in God’s image, was given the mandate to subdue the earth and govern it with justice and holiness. This mandate encompasses all aspects of daily life, including work and family responsibilities.
- Human progress as a sign of God’s grace: Christians do not view human accomplishments as a rival to God’s power, but as a sign of His grace and a manifestation of His mysterious plan. As humanity’s power increases, so does its responsibility.
- The centrality of the human person in human activity: Human activity derives its significance from its relationship to the human person. When a man works, he not only transforms the world around him but also develops himself. True growth lies in the development of character and virtues, rather than the accumulation of material wealth.
- The norm of human activity: Human activity should be in harmony with the divine plan, promoting the genuine good of humanity and allowing individuals and societies to pursue their full potential and fulfill their vocation.
- Autonomy of earthly affairs and dependence on God: The Church upholds the rightful autonomy of earthly affairs, recognizing that created things have their own laws and values. However, this autonomy does not mean independence from God. All things derive their existence and identity from God. The pursuit of knowledge, when conducted ethically, is compatible with faith.
- The temptation of human progress: While acknowledging the benefits of human progress, the Church also warns of its temptations. When values are distorted, individuals and groups can become self-centered, leading to conflict and the potential for self-destruction.
- The struggle against evil and the need for purification: The history of humanity is marked by a struggle against the forces of darkness. Human activity, tainted by pride and selfishness, needs purification and perfection through Christ’s cross and resurrection.
- The way of love and the transformation of the world: Christ’s message of love offers hope for establishing universal brotherhood. Charity should be practiced not only in grand gestures but also in the ordinary circumstances of life. Through the Holy Spirit, Christ empowers individuals to work towards a more humane world, preparing it for its ultimate transformation.
- The hope for a new earth and the responsibility to cultivate the present one: While looking forward to a new dwelling place and a new earth where justice will prevail, Christians are called to actively engage in transforming the present world. Earthly progress, while distinct from the growth of Christ’s kingdom, is of vital concern to it.
In essence, Chapter 3 calls Christians to actively participate in the world, utilizing their talents and abilities to build a more just and humane society, all while remaining grounded in their faith and recognizing the ultimate goal of human history—the coming of God’s Kingdom.
Sharing
Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples,”Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share these posts with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age
Author utilized AI in the preparation of this post.