One of the many graces of living in South Africa is that our judiciary is still relatively independent. It is not suffering wholesale “capture” like many of the other state services. There is no doubt that some magistrates and judges are in the pockets of politicians and businesspeople. Nevertheless, we can still have reasonable confidence in a fair outcome if we ever have recourse to the
courts to settle a legal matter. This is not the case in every country on our continent.
In this week’s parable, Jesus is not talking about our South African style of systemic corruption. That is a story for another day. Instead, Jesus is pointing to the personal corruption of the individual judge, whose arrogance blocks him from recognising the sovereignty of God and the dignity of the people he serves. If he ever knew it, he has
forgotten that he has been appointed to an office to help people in their distress. He has taken the power and glory to himself, while ignoring his duty and obligations.
The role of the Judicial Service Commission is so important in selecting men and women of integrity. Candidates who are compromised ultimately cause more chaos than harmony. Sociopaths can do significant damage in a position which requires deep empathy. Poor people
suffer from their careerism or lack of compassion.
What social roles do I play that require me to respect the dignity of other people? Do I exercise my limited power for the good of people around me? What can I do when I encounter toxic power games?
Reflections by Peter Knox SJ
