Liberation, Reductionism, and Preferential Option

1078 Words3 Pages

Explain the meaning and significance of the following statement by Gutiérrez, and demonstrate its relationship to a comprehensive view of liberation, (including the danger of reductionism), and the importance of the preferential option for the poor : "The present life is considered to be a test: one’s actions are judged and assessed in relation to the transcendent end. The perspective here is moralistic, and the spirituality is one of flight from this world" (p. 84). The magnificence of human life is so transparent because it is sacred seeing that it is an act of creation. Life diverts an inimitable place in creation since it was created in the image of God. The protection of human life is the conclusive value, a support of beliefs and ethics and the basis of all morals and principles. Life should be looked upon with respect to where one is in time, because time moves on. As time moves on, one encounters the problem of which path to follow. In the stages of early life, youth are taught about the choices they should and should not make. So even as a young child, one knows that their actions will be judged and one should be able to tell right from wrong. God has presented humanity with life and throughout life one must realize that life’s actions should be analyzed, understanding of liberation should be expressed, and the better opportunity for the poor should be accentuated. Independently, as one grows in age, their actions should make a daily reflection to God. In “A Theology of Liberation,” Gutierrez avers that, "The present life is considered to be a test: one’s actions are judged and assessed in relation to the transcendent end. The perspective here is moralistic, and the spirituality is one of flight from this world... ... middle of paper ... ...what one does. God hopes that everyone lives a good, generous life. Everyone should perform actions from their hearts, because if one is forced to do something it is not love. For instance, throughout life one is taught that being there for the other or a friend is something that is out of love and is the significance of friendship. Everyone should be friends with the poor, get to know them, and lend a helping hand. In conclusion, humankind is blessed with life as God created it. One must reflect on their actions throughout life because one will be judged by God in the next life, one must see the importance of gasping liberation, and one must have a loving and open heart when helping the poor. Life should be lived to its fullest because once time is lost, it cannot be regained; life needs to be appreciated. Works Cited Theology of Liberation by Gutierrez

Open Document