‘This is a wicked generation; it is asking for a sign’
(see Luke 11:29-32)
We can sometimes look back on previous generations with a certain sense of alarm and smugness, blessed with hindsight, and think of ourselves as far more civilised and enlightened than they were! Similarly, we even look at the cultures and practices of other countries, of which we have little insight or understanding, and denounce them as strange or unacceptable to us.
However, in recent times, the UK has began to look at itself differently. Following the death of George Floyd, the Black Lives Matter Movement fed the desire to re-evaluate the way in which those involved in the Transatlantic slave trade were continued to be honoured in the public space through statues, buildings and place names, which also means re-evaluating the part that Britain played. Now, in many places statues and other physical reminders in the public sphere, have been removed or reconsidered, and a new narrative is being written which allows people of colour to have their voice, share their heritage, and their experience of the world.
No generation can or should have a feeling of self satisfaction that all is well. We need to be open to scrutiny, so that a truthful perspective can emerge. The Church, too, has made mistakes, and sometimes not stood up for the justice it proclaims. How can we be part of a changing landscape, and allow a new, inclusive story be told?
PRAY FOR those charged with re-evaluating and reconsidering the narrative being told, and for a generous response to the experience of others.
Our daily reflections for Lent focus on the many injustices which exist in our world, as we seek to connect our life of prayer to social justice the Justice of God which Christ proclaimed. More resources are available at www.southcardiffministryarea.co.uk/just-lent
South Cardiff Ministry Area 