Picture today created by Hansuan Fabregas from Pixabay
Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. At the heart of International Women’s Day is that together we can forge women’s equality.
In our Gospel’s Jesus had great time for women. He was so ahead of his time, because back then women were treated poorly and treated as second class citizens. Jesus rose above all of that and treated women equally and fairly. One of the most famous was Mary Magdalene. Jesus transformed her life from one in the shadows, to one of transformation, inspiration and new beginnings.
My latest videos
‘A Prayer for the people of Ukraine’ https://youtu.be/b9hajo3z87s
‘A Prayer for Lent by Pope Francis’ https://youtu.be/LuAc1JvrWSY
(Just copy and paste in your browser) If you know someone who might like this video do pass it onto them. Many thanks
Thought on Tuesday – March – 08/03/2022
Thought For The Week
‘There is a story told of a preacher who preached over and over, “Put God into your life, put God into your life.” But the holy Rabbi of the village said, “Our task is not to put God into our lives because God is already there.” Our task is simply to realize that.’ ~Joan Chittister
It is hard to imagine that the whole Covid story, which never went away for two years, is now hardly mentioned in the media. It would take something big for this to happen. It is now the Ukraine War that is making all the headlines. It is fair to say that everyone is shocked, horrified and upset by what is happening. There is a wide circulation of very moving pictures of families fleeing the conflict and others staying at home to defend their country. There are no winners in all of this.
We also begun our journey through Lent. Pope Francis has asked specifically for prayers for peace. Some might say what’s the point as the war has already started. But it is good to pray and more importantly that we are united in prayer with people all over the world for the people of Ukraine. So many communities have organised collections of essential food items, medical supplies and sanitary items. Many of these collections are already on their way to Ukraine and much more to follow. This weekend we will continue our prayers for peace.
The Lenten journey is a significant one for the coming weeks. There are always areas in our spiritual lives that need gentle attention. We are all familiar with a leak and how over time it can add up to a significant amount. Lent is a great time to look at our lives and see where the leaks are. What can I do to stop even one leak? This can often be achieved by simply doing something we have been putting off.
It might be more quality time with family or friends, it might be eating a healthier diet, getting some exercise in, getting in some prayer or quiet time or appreciating the beauty of the present moment. Lent is not about doing the sensational or the spectacular. It is all about doing the small things and doing them well. It is not just about finding God but knowing that God is already there.
