Today, in his letter to the Romans, Paul speaks with deep anguish over the unbelief of Israel—his own people, his family according to the flesh. His grief is so profound that he says he would even bear a curse himself if only they might come to know the power of Christ and the Resurrection: “For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my kindred according to the flesh.” (Romans 9:3)

I feel today as Paul did then. How about you?

As I look upon our nation, so divided by politics, racism, classism, and even acts of hatred justified in Christ’s name, my heart aches. I grieve for how misguided beliefs often breed harm, fear, and separation rather than love and unity.

Paul’s longing was not only for conversion but for communion—for a humanity restored in the God revealed through Jesus Christ: the humble servant of the poor, who chose solidarity over superiority and mercy over judgment. The true God of Israel, and of all peoples, calls us not to rigid observance of rules, but to a love so deep, so strong and tender, courageous and compassionate, that it breaks the chains binding every heart and restores the freedom to love as God loves.

In Jesus, God continues the mission of liberation and reconciliation, healing what divides us and freeing us from whatever binds us.

And so today, I cry out for compassion where there is anger, forgiveness where there is blame, and courage where there is fear. I pray to embody the virtues of Christ, his mercy, humility, and steadfast love, so that he may heal the wounds of division in our nation.

How about you?

—Fr. Phil Cooke, SJ, is a member of the Midwest Jesuits and is Pastor at St. Isaac Jogue’s Parish in Rapid City, SD.

O God, you are my God, for you I long; For you my soul is thirsting.
My body pines for you, Like a dry, weary land without water.
For your love is better than life.
On my bed I remember you.
On you I muse through the night.

—Psalm 63: 2, 4, 7