Our governing documents include terms like the common good and the general welfare to shape the ideals of "we the people" and democratic process. Yet, that new nation still permitted slavery, vast separation of the social classes, voting restrictions, and more. You see, the common good is elusive to us humans.
We're hot wired around self. Egocentric humans worship the unholy trinity of me, myself, and I above most other interests. Legislatures, government systems, and the legal community seek fairness, equality, and dignity in the human arena. Still, there are many barriers to creating a culture where the common good is the norm. And, most will agree that the road to what is best for everyone is beyond government, the niceties of human behavior, education, or our many desires to make thr ground level for everyone.
The common good is really a spiritual discipline. Scripture tracks a clear path to understanding where others fit into our lives.
You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
Mark 12: 31, ESV
Whatever you do for the least of these you do for me.
Matthew 25: 40, ESV
Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Philippians 2: 4, ESV
Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.
1 Corinthians 10: 24, ESV
And, there are many others. It's true, where we place others in our priority system is the beginning point of achieving the common good. And, in this context, it was one of the final factors that drove Harriet and I to the vaccination site to receive the Covid-19 shots. Yes, we both had the Corona virus and we knew the debilitating symptoms. Doctors are still undecided about whether we can have second rounds of Covid-19 or whether or not the vaccines have an expirations date. But, we didn't want to transmit this virus to our family or friends. So, shot time.
Tomorrow I will discuss the final impetus that took us to the vaccine place. I call it Shop Local. Join me.
BLesssings.