Today’s first reading from 1 Kings (21), the story of Naboth, is one of the most chilling and powerful stories in the Old Testament. In the biblical world-view false religion and idolatry go hand in hand with injustice and oppression. Ahab and Jezebel are motivated by pure greed, and they engineer Naboth’s death to get want they want.
In the ancient world people and families are often tied to the land, and a reluctance to sell land sometimes is an indication that it is seen as a gift from God. We all know, of course, that monarchs and other powerful people have always acted like Ahab to grab the land and resources of others. In the current context it’s worth remembering that this country’s grim history of colonialism and the racism which accompanied it was based on the seizing of vast amounts of land: so the timeless story of Naboth is a wake-up call as we look back on our sad and shameful history.
Our gospel reading continues the Sermon on the Mount from Matthew. ‘Turning the other cheek’ has been a distinctive character of Christian moral teaching – also one which people have had problems following; and it’s often been qualified or simply ignored.
God bless and take care
Fr Ashley
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Quite a few of our young people in this parish are pupils at Coloma Convent Girls School, and our congregation also includes present and past members of staff. During lockdown the school has produced very good material for pupils and parents – the latest ‘Coloma Catholic Life’ newsletter can be read HERE.
Please pray for the clergy and stewards today as the church reopens for prayer at 1030 today, and for all those who will be coming into St Edmund’s.
God bless and take care
Fr Ashley
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