In a world where we are encouraged to begin new relationships, struggle with existing relationships, warn against harmful relationships, expect to understand our relationships and have relationships on social networks like Facebook and X, we are given, on Trinity Sunday, an opportunity to reflect on our relationship with the three persons in one God and what they mean for and to us.
Today, we might want to reflect on our relationship with the Trinity as we go to the polls. South Africa votes today. Over 80% of the population is Christian. Our relationship with God should speak into all aspects of our lives - including our choices at the ballot box. God is active and present in every aspect of our lives, including our vote!
The Christian doctrine of the Trinity is that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit
perpetually will the good of each other. There is no division, only a real distinction and an active exchange of love so perfect they are one God.
We might ask ourselves how our choice will benefit others—not just my good or the good of my group. Sometimes, we make choices that are not free—we are swayed by various pressures and, maybe, even prejudice. Other times, we choose simply because we are comfortable or familiar with one way rather than another. Reflecting
on how our choices can positively or negatively affect others could be a powerful way of discerning how we think about voting today.
The Trinity is also an active exchange of love so perfect that they are one—there is unity. This may be another helpful reflection for us: Who do we believe can lead our country in overcoming so many of the painful divisions that exist—the divisions between rich and poor, black and white, employed and unemployed, etc.? How can
we participate in the life of the Trinity that is fundamentally oriented towards unity when we make our choice for the country’s future?
In what way will our choice today reflect our relationship with the Triune God and impact relationships in the country? Will my choice advance life-giving relationships between people? Let us seek guidance from the Triune God in our decision-making today, trusting in God’s wisdom and love.
Reflections by Russell Pollitt SJ
