The Genesis reading of today, narrates the account of the creation of woman from the rib of man. What is essential to our faith is to understand the message the inspired writer had for us: that man and woman have been created for each other, to be companions for each other as equals. This was in the plan of God from the beginning of time. Thus the cry of safeguarding the dignity of humankind, especially of women is not a new fad but a biblical inspiration.

The intrinsic goodness of all God's creation is mentioned again in the Gospel when Jesus reminds us that all created things are good in the eyes of God. It is man's selfish perception and thinking that lead to evil and wrongdoing.

As Christians moving into the 21st century, we need to be more and more aware of the truths of our faith. Knowing what God has blessed us with and admitting to ourselves our own human frailty will help us to steer a safe path through the challenges and chaos of life in our time.