Lent reflection for 24 February

How much better a place the world would be if we could all find it in our hearts to do this.

We know how hard it is to love the person who has wronged us, even in our own minor grievances. In our pain, we sometimes lash out, and so the cycle continues.

It takes courage for long entrenched enemies to treat each other with love and build towards the trust which is needed to start bringing about an end to conflict and division. 

CAFOD has worked for many years in both Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) with partners who are Christian, Jewish, Muslim and secular. We call for an immediate end to all violence, for a permanent ceasefire, and a just and lasting peace.

As Pope Francis has said, “The Middle East does not need war but peace, a peace built on justice, dialogue and the courage of fraternity.”

Let us raise our voices and have an influence where we can, demanding people in power work for peace throughout our world.

And let us pray for all who are persecuted and that those who inflict violence on others may turn instead to peace.

Prayer

God of peace, bearer of hope, where there is hatred and division sow seeds of calm and openness. Show us how to break down the barriers of history and fear and breathe whispers of hope. Amen.

Act

Pray for peace in situations of conflict and tension.