6 March. Favouritism. SEE.  Margi had asked her children, “Do you think that your father and I have favourites?” “Yes, no, I’m not sure,” were their replies.  She continued,  “favouritism has been a curse in many ways in families.  In some cases an older child, a boy, or a girl has become the favourite of one of the parents, a grandparent or another relative causing resentment. Even taking sides in discussions and debates can show favouritism and doesn’t recognize everyone has equal rights.  We all know the story of Joseph and his technicolour dream-coat. I don’t understand how Jacob could have been so stupid as to make Joseph a favourite and so make his brothers hate him.  Any sensible parent should know better.”   

JUDGE, reflect and share. 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. Read the story from Gen 17 – 28.   

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.  Pope Leo: Peace be with you” ( Jn 20:19, 21) is his Word that does not merely desire peace, but truly brings about a lasting transformation in those who receive it, and consequently in all of reality.  For this reason, the Apostles’ successors give voice every day throughout the world to the most silent of revolutions: “Peace be with you!”  PM  

From ST FRANCIS UNCENSORED.  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.  They did make peace.

REFLECT-SHARE-ACT-PRAY. Share on personal experiences of favouritism and maybe ask forgiveness.  This concept can be applied to forms of acceptance or discrimination too.  Right now in the war in the Middle East do you have a favourite and as your choice just and well-informed.

Do you have your Lenten resources for families?