October 29.  Government and values. 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 much of a mystery.  

Reflect, share, act. Scripture: The kingdom of God is like a mustard seed, it is like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures 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. Action and Prayer.  Where do I stand on the issue of land? Pray: Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in us the fire of your love, so that walking together we may renew the face of the earth.