28 October. In today’s society kings and kingdoms are largely out of fashion although some remain and are actively supported by their people.  Kingship is hereditary and so can be a setting for national and/or family values to be planted or instilled and built upon. However there is also the possibility of abuse of power.  When it comes to comparisons, as in the gospel, do forms of government other than democracy have an equally strong possibility of upholding positive values in such matters as the ownership and appropriation of land? That was the subject of a debate amongst three schools’ matric classes. The outcome?  Undecided.  Kingdoms of man like the kingdom of God are a mystery.  

Reflect, share, act. Scripture:  The kingdom of God is like a mustard seed.  The kingdom of God is like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measure of meal.  Luke 13:18-21.   SACBC Statement on Land.  August 2018. Based on Biblical teaching and developed by the Social Teaching of the Church we affirm that the land is meant for all the peoples of the earth and is held by us in sacred trust.  There is no absolute ownership of land.  Human beings are always at the centre of our social and economic life.    We affirm the need for respect for human life and human dignity, a democracy at the service of the common good, transparent and incorruptible leadership, responsible dialogue, non-violence, respect for the Constitution, practical wisdom and rejection of populism. JUBILEE. 16. Echoing the age-old message of the prophets, the Jubilee reminds us that the goods of the earth are not destined for a privileged few, but for everyone. The rich must be generous and not avert their eyes from the faces of their brothers and sisters in need. Here I think especially of those who lack water and food: hunger is a scandal, an open wound on the body of our humanity, and it summons all of us to a serious examination of conscience.   Act and Pray for the needs of families and our calling to become true missionary disciples.