Tuesday, March 19, 2019

Father Abraham

That is why what fulfils the promise depends on faith, so that it may be a free gift and be available to all of Abraham’s descendants, not only those who belong to the Law but also those who belong to the faith of Abraham who is the father of all of us.    Rms.4:16
Saint Paul highlights that the blessing of faith is a free gift to all who belong to the faith of Abraham.

We are grieving at the slaughter of fifty Muslims in Christchurch who were practicing their gift of faith in prayer. Today's second reading is a reminder of our connection with the Muslim community. Abraham is the father of faith for both Muslims and Christians as well as Jews. We are family.

I have witnessed a number of vigils for the fifty dead. The common theme is an outpouring of compassion and love for the New Zealand Muslim community. I have joined others in weeping with them. Our hearts have been broken and this has made us softer towards each other. What was intended as evil and disunity has birthed something beautiful and good, something that is drawing us closer together than we were before last Friday.

A high price has been paid for this new unity. I will treasure it.

Father in heaven, you are the creator of us all. Help us rid ourselves of suspicion, fear and hatred. Help us to be bold in loving one another. 
Little Flower, please pray for us.


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