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In today’s second reading, James writes with a disciplinary earnestness addressing “you rich people.” He describes punishment awaiting those who exploit others. Tragically, today the world continues to be flooded by exploitation and oppression. It is fitting that this reading falls on the 110th World Day of Migrants and Refugees. Conflict, socio-economic crises and natural disasters continue to displace millions from their homes. This displacement puts them at risk of exploitation.
While we may not be contributing directly to the problem, are we working towards a solution? Media tend to paint a narrow picture of the ongoing worldwide refugee crisis, often only focusing on one or two countries. Working with the refugee community, I have learned that while there are many positive stories of brighter futures, there is also a darker side that can include human trafficking.
Being rich does not only refer to monetary wealth. You may be rich in resources, knowledge, or even social and political agency. On this World Day of Migrants and Refugees, reflect on how you can use your own riches to work towards the end of human exploitation. Following today’s Gospel, “be not a stumbling block before one of these little ones” but rather “give [...] a cup of water to drink because you bear the name of Christ.”