September 9. A Look at Life. The Covid pandemic which is still ongoing although at a low level has led the whole world to a deeper reflection on matters of health and wellbeing.  The most effective approaches towards these new health risks, the safety and efficacy of vaccines, include the importance of effective leadership with its many medical and psychological concerns. Effective leadership issues continue to surface as they do in elections and establishment of new government structures. “How are leaders chosen these days?” This was a serious question for all communities, parish groups and families to discuss.  Who chooses, how and why?  If one looks around the world and the different countries and even organisations, do people lobby for support, bribe or give out food parcels to buy votes?  Do we vote as a reaction against something or for someone who we believe will serve the common good?  We can describe such “common good” people as “servant leaders.”

Reflect, share, act. Scripture: All night long Jesus continued in prayer to God.  And when it was day he called his disciples and chose from them twelve whom he named apostles. He came down and stood with them and with a great crowd of his disciples.  Luke 6:12-19.  Pope Francis:  We lack leadership capable of striking out on new paths and meeting the needs of the present with concern for all and without prejudice towards coming generations.  LS53.  There are too many special interests that easily end up trumping the common good and manipulating information so that the person’s own plans will not be affected.   LS 54. Eco-tip and prayer:  Get involved in a “leadership debate” on social media. Discuss servant leadership and pray for leaders with integrity in all spheres of life.  DAILY PRAYER.  God of love show us as families how to be channels of Your love for all Your creatures.  Pour out Your Spirit upon us as we pray and work together to tend the garden of creation and foster peace with creation.