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What a contrast between the reading from Genesis and the Gospel! Here
we see two completely different ways of approaching God. In one case,
the Pharisees identify the service of God with the minute observance of
man-made rituals. We, too, can fall into the same trap as we measure
ourselves and others merely by external religious behaviour. As Jesus says
elsewhere, it is love that God wants not religious rites. It is easy
for us to be scrupulous in following, in carrying out what we regard as
the requirements of our religion, while completely ignoring the real
needs of people around us. In the story of creation, we see the marvellous coming into being of our universe. We do not, of course, take it as a literal account. Above all, we see men and women being made in the image of their Creator and mandated to be its stewards. In fact, the whole of creation, as Paul tells us, shouts to us of the nature and beauty of our God. But it is for us in particular to deepen that image in ourselves as we grow to reflect more and more on the truth, love and goodness of our God. It is here that true religion can be fostered: in seeking, finding and responding to God in every person and every experience of our lives. Help us, Lord, to recognise Your presence pervading every facet of our lives. Help us to serve You in making our world even a better place for everyone. We ask this through Christ our Lord. |
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P R A Y I N G W I T H T H E C H U R C H
| INTENTION : |
That children will never again be obliged to participate in
any war, but may be freed from hatred and violence and may live, as
children should, enjoying friendship in their family, school and society.
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The international community is increasingly recognising the
vulnerability of displaced children in refugee camps. They are at particular risk
of being exploited by armed groups. As recruited soldiers children
suffer disproportionately from the general rigours of military life.
Younger children may have deformed backs and shoulders, the result of
carrying loads too heavy for them. Malnutrition, respiratory and skin
infections and other ailments are frequent, as are sexually transmitted
diseases, including AIDS. The use of child soldiers also has repercussion on other children who remain in the conflict area. The risk, is that children will be killed, detained interrogated, or subject to pre-emptive recruitment. We must not close our eyes to the fact that child soldiers are not victims and perpetrators. No matter what the child is guilty of, the main responsibility lies with us, the adults. To stop this abuse, no child under 18 should be recruited for or participate in war. There is simply no excuse, no acceptable argument for arming children. | |
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