Without charity there can be no justice. But there is a false kind of charity, which is really no charity at all, that perverts justice and weakens society. If just laws meant for the proper ordering of society are not adhered to and not enforced, the result is chaos – or worse.

Every citizen has a role to play in promoting the “common good”, a real responsibility to do what he or she can to influence society in ways that foster true development. This duty begins in the family but must be sustained and deepened in our workplaces and in all areas of national life.

If laws are flouted in one area, even when it may seem that the only ones affected are those breaking the law, the behaviour can only breed disrespect for laws in general. This is not the case only when citizens seek to circumvent the law in corrupt ways but also when they act in disregard of the rule of law and order.

It is a sight common enough to see people riding in the open tray of vehicles heading out to or returning from a weekend “lime” at the beach. We have seen motorists using the shoulders of the road in an attempt to get ahead of cars in a line of traffic, and motorists travelling at speeds on the highways that are far in excess of what the law permits –to mention but a few regular infringements.

Again, the citizen has the first responsibility to do what is proper and protect the rights, freedom and security of fellow citizens. But why is there, so often, so little attempt to enforce the law? Where are the law enforcers when the people who value the law and seek to obey it need them? The rights of those who seek to live up to the law must be defended and protected.

Not-yet-developed status

To have bills passed and laws enacted is only one aspect of the process to bring about true justice. Laws that are just must be respected by the average citizen, by the members of our business community, as well as by Government and State enterprises.

In this regard, the Catholic News supports the call of Trinidad and Tobago Transparency International and others for Government and its agencies to follow procurement processes which do not allow room for corrupt practices.

In an ideal society, people would not need too much coercion to do what was right: everyone would recognise the good and desire it. Principled and moral behaviour taught in the home and school would take root and blossom as each one witnessed to the other.

When laws are broken brazenly, with contempt and for selfish reasons, the society’s development is retarded. Until citizens respect the laws of the nation and those entrusted with the responsibility to enforce them do so consistently, Trinidad and Tobago will remain locked into a not-yet developed status.

In this Sunday’s gospel, John the Baptist calls a people in whom he has roused a “feeling of expectancy”to reform their lives as part of preparing the way for the Christ, the one who makes possible a kingdom of truth and justice. To the tax collectors, John says: “Exact no more than your rate.” To some soldiers: “No intimidation! No extortion! Be content with your pay!”

When our people are encouraged to live with respect for the just laws of the land, when they begin to see changes that uphold the rights of every citizen, they will live with a new level of expectancy. They will respond in ways that are beneficial to the civic community.