Have Mercy on Us and on the Whole World: A Visit to Auschwitz
- Nicky Uerling
- Sep 19, 2016
- 1 min read
"For the sake of his sorrowful passion, have mercy on us
and on the whole world. "
These are the words we prayed together on the bus after walking through Birkenau - Auschwitz II. My heart hurt.
Have mercy on us and on the whole world. The whole world part was easy. Yes, Lord, have mercy on those who committed these atrocious crimes against humanity. Have mercy on the souls of those whose remains now lie in a serene lake. Have mercy on them.
This prayer, however, calls for more: have mercy on us. I am part of us. I am part of the system that allows for unjust actions. I must acknowledge my part in social sins.
And I must pray, "have mercy on us and on the whole world."
Today's Challenge:
Reflect upon your role in social sins.
Reflection Questions:
1. What are some of today's social sins?
2. What can I do to affect change in the system I live in?
3. How do I help raise awareness of social sins?
Comments