I am not a physicist. In fact, I did not formally study physics in college, except for a brief exposure through a course called Integrated Science, which combined several scientific disciplines. Still, later in life, I came across what is known as the Newtonian Law of Reciprocal Action, popularly called Newton’s Third Law of Motion. It states that for every action (or force) in nature, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In other words, whenever one object exerts a force on another, that second object simultaneously exerts a force of equal magnitude in the opposite direction. Those scientific expressions may sound abstract, and they are, especially to those of us who encounter them casually, but in simple terms, they suggest something quite familiar: we tend to receive in proportion to what we give. If you love others, love returns to you; if you forgive, your own faults are forgiven as well.
As I listened to the three readings of this weekend’s liturgy (Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12-13; 1 Corinthians 1:26-31), and especially their composite summary in the Gospel according to Matthew (5:1-12a), where Jesus proclaims the Beatitudes, my thoughts kept circling around a universal principle often called “karma.” This concept, rooted in several Asian religious traditions such as Hinduism, comes from the Sanskrit word karman, meaning “action,” “work,” or “deed.” Karma refers to the law of cause and effect, which teaches that every action, including our thoughts and words, produces corresponding consequences for the doer, whether in this life or in a future one.
Bringing that principle into conversation with today’s readings helps clarify the message before us. Technically, we reap what we sow. Scripture echoes this truth plainly: we do not plant oranges and expect to harvest mangoes (Galatians 6:7-8). Our actions matter. They shape our character, influence others, and ultimately return to us in one form or another. The Beatitudes themselves point us toward humility, meekness, mercy, and purity of heart, not as abstract ideals, but as practical ways of living that carry real consequences.
My final word is for everyone to continue to do the good they are called to do. Be humble in all your service. Love with your whole heart. And trust that the God who sees even what is done in secret will reward you, both now and in the world to come. Amen!
