26/01/2024

St Mark assures us that Jesus explained the meaning of his parables to his closest followers which must have included women disciples who are not mentioned in the Gospels except on Calvary. They are the ones who did not hide their heads in shame but supported Jesus and his mother to the bitter end.

When Jesus cured Peter's mother she got off her sick bed and began to minister to them. Martha was angered by her sister when Mary sat listening to the words of the Lord rather than joining the other women in the kitchen. The miracle at Cana was performed at the request of his mother to solve a domestic crisis.

The attitudes of the Apostles towards women are those of their times but modified by the commandments which have to apply equally to all our neighbours, regardless of gender. St Paul has a pretty bad reputation in "feminist" circles but he addresses more women by name than any of the Evangelists.

St Timothy's grandmother is known by name to all who read or listen to the New Testament. Lois who lived 2000 years ago would have been totally speechless if anyone had told her that her name would be known to millions, when she was alive.

Dear Lord we are equally known to you. Men and women. You know us body and soul. You have by your incarnation shown to us that there is nothing inherently wicked in our bodies. Our  Original Sin is in our disobedient will which is a power of our souls. Our will creates the evil which you have given us the power to combat by opening our hearts to the grace of Father Son and Holy Spirit. Jesus on earth is not only our example he is also the Mystical Body in which can begin to live in this world as we will live in heaven. May Mary lead all the Saints, Titus, Timothy and Eunice and her mother, Lois in the prayer that bring forgiveness to sinners on earth and those suffering just punishment in Purgatory.