Women’s Equality and Empowerment: created equal by God
‘Honour your father and your mother,
that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you’
(Exodus 20:12)
From its very first chapter, the Bible tells us that both male and female
are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Not surprisingly, then,
the commandments given by God at Mt Sinai command equal respect for both mother and father.
Of course, as we all know, there are differences between the sexes – to the woman is given
the joy (and pain) of bringing a child into the world. Mary gave birth to Jesus.
But the very differences make it essential that we practice equality of worth.
This is part of the Christian message which should flow forth from the gospel message
as it is taken into all the world, challenging and transforming the sinful practices
which have so often worked in unjust ways against the interests of women.
Question for thought: In what ways have I seen unjust behaviour in my own community?
Gracious Heavenly Father, we bring our sisters in the Diocese of Newala in Tanzania
before you and pray as they support and care for each other in vast remote rural areas
which can only be reached by unmade roads and without mains water or electricity.
Help them as they care for those in need. Pray for the small congregations across the vast
Diocese of the Riverina and especially for those who serve in these places. AMEN