Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus,

This week we will continue our study of the virtues by looking at the “Human”, “Cardinal” or “Moral” (these terms will be used interchangeably in this message) virtue of justice. Before we begin let us review what is a virtue? In the CCC 1803 it states “…A virtue is an habitual and firm disposition to do the good. It allows the person not only to perform good acts, but to give the best of himself. The virtuous person tends toward the good with all his sensory and spiritual powers; he pursues the good and chooses it in concrete actions…” “Human” or “Cardinal” or “Moral” virtues help us develop habits to freely choose a deliberate act which is toward the good. When faced with a choice between doing something good or doing something evil, the Cardinal Virtues direct us to the good. The Cardinal (Moral) Virtues are prudence, justice, fortitude and temperance.

According to CCC 1807, “Justice is the moral virtue that consists in the constant and firm will to give their due to God and neighbor. Justice toward God is called the “virtue of religion.” Justice toward men disposes one to respect the rights of each and to establish in human relationships the harmony that promotes equity with regard to persons and to the common good. The just man, often mentioned in the Sacred Scriptures, is distinguished by habitual right thinking and the uprightness of his conduct toward his neighbor. “You shall not be partial to the poor or defer to the great, but in righteousness shall you judge your neighbor. “Masters, treat your slaves justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.”

According to the Catholic Encyclopedia it states “In moral theology, justice is the cardinal virtue by which one gives to another what is due. There are two standards for determining this: an arithmetical and a geometric standard. The arithmetical standard requires that the debtor give exactly the same amount to the other, which the geometrical standard requires only a proportional compensation for what was received. Commutative justice regulates actions between individuals, while distributive justice regulates relations between groups and individuals. Social justice refers to the rights and obligations of society and individuals to one another. Original justice refers to the condition of Adam and Eve before original sin, in which they possessed what was due to them from God.”

The virtue of justice moves us to act in a way that each person is given what they are due. Justice makes us treat each person fairly and with respect. Justice moves us to give an honest day’s work for an honest wage. Justice moves us to stand up and defend those who are being mistreated or who are being taken advantage of. Justice ensures that each person receives what is due them, including God!

Fr. David