March 5.  Margi had asked her children, “Do you think that your father and I have favourites?” “Yes, no, I’m not sure,” were their replies.  “Favouritism has been a curse in many ways.  In some cases an older child,  or a boy, or maybe a girl has become the favourite of one of the parents, or a grandparent and that can cause lots of resentment. Even taking sides can show favouritism and doesn’t recognize everyone has equal rights.” (Today is Women’s World Day of Prayer. What does that say about favouritism?)

Scripture. Israel loved Joseph more than any other of his children, because he was the son of his old age, and he made him a long robe with sleeves.  But when his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers they hated him and could not speak peaceably to him. From Gen 37 – 28.   Margi added,  “I don’t understand how Jacob could have been so stupid as to make Joseph a favourite and  have his brothers hate him.  Any sensible parent should know better.”   

Pope Francis: As religious leaders we are called to be true people of dialogue, to cooperate in building peace not as intermediaries but as authentic mediators.  Intermediaries seek to give everyone a discount, ultimately in order to gain something for themselves.  The mediator on the other hand, is one who retains nothing for himself, but spends himself generously, knowing that the only gain is peace. FT284. 

St Francis, from his sick-bed acted as mediator between the bishop and the mayor of Assisi in their conflict. He sent a message “Praise be to you my Lord, through those who grant pardon for love of you, and bear sickness and trial.  Blessed are those who endure in peace.”  From Canticle of the Creatures. 

Reflect, share, act, pray.  Share on personal experiences of favouritism and maybe ask forgiveness.