27th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Readings:

Genesis 2: 18-24
Hebrews 2: 9-11
Mark 10: 2-16

Reflection:

We are all created in Divine Image … exactly as we are. In our relationships with self and others, we are deeply coded to be true to our deepest self, whether that be in relationship to our gender, our sexuality, our personality, our intellect or talents. All the similarities and differences between us can only enhance that Divine Image, especially in relationships, however we define them.

As Jesus suggested … it is as simple as holding on to the innocence and clarity of the small child who sees self and others ‘as they are’ with no layers of conditioning or emotional baggage. How important is it to maintain or regain that original innocence as members of the family of God. In today’s world that can be a challenge for many people.

My thirteen-year-old granddaughter shared recently how her friend at school was ‘outed’ on Tic-Tock for being ‘non-binary’. Her fury at the culprits was expressed thus: “Those girls are the losers …I will be a better friend … to show my friend that I like them exactly as they are!”

We often hear unkind or critical comments about people’s marital status, sexuality, personal attributes or economic situation … usually because they challenge the ‘status quo’ and they are different from us. How boring it would be if we were all the same! Doesn’t the great variety in humanity speak to the greatness of the Divine Image … as well as the scope and potential we all seek to become more …?

May we be a blessing of God for others in our lives and in our world.

Pam Storey is a member of the Passionist Faith Community at Holy Cross, Templestowe, and one of the founding members of Passionist Companions. After a very active and varied family, church and working life, Pam is now focusing on developing a slow spirituality.