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Lectionary
EASTER 1: 30 MARCH – 5 APRIL, 2008
THEME: ‘COMMITMENT
OF THE WOMEN.’
READING: Luke 24. 1 – 12
The
women disciples of Jesus remained committed and focused in
their services even in the face of death. Their faith and
commitment eventually brought about the joy that followed the
resurrection. The role of the African woman in the
socio-economic transformation of Africa cannot be
underestimated. To a large extent, the contribution of women
in various sectors of the economy such as health, agriculture,
education and commerce is making a significant impact on the
development of many African countries.
Hitherto, however,
the socio-economic power of the African woman was limited. She
was relegated to the periphery in society as her male
counterpart did not only take up leadership positions, but
also wielded authority in all respects. In view of their
limited access to formal education and professional training,
women are sometimes found in all manner of informal jobs such
as farming and household activities. This situation sometimes
rends women to become vulnerable, dependent on their husbands
and the victims of poverty and domestic violence (Eph 5. 22 –
33; 1Cor. 14. 34 &35).
The socio-economic life of the
African woman in many conflict and war-endemic zones on the
continent is very miserable as they become victims of wars
(refugees); they suffer torture, rape, lack of basic needs and
various degrees of casualties (1Sam. 30:3)
Notwithstanding
these shortfalls and deprivations, which one may term the
characteristics of a society which is not advanced, the
African woman still remains a source of hope for the
socio-economic transformation of the continent. The attainment
of socio-economic independence of the continent could be a
mirage without women’s empowerment and support. Africa needs
women in politics, women of strong character, great wisdom,
skills and great compassion for a positive change. Mothers of
Africa, your children need you to impart in them solid moral,
cultural and social values (Titus 2:3 & 4; Esther 5: 1-8)
Submitted by Rev. Francis Kwami Amenu
PRAYER
Creator God, as we rejoice in the afterglow of Easter, we
thank you for the women who went to the tomb and proclaimed
your victory over death. We thank you for the part women play
in the socio-economic life of the continent of Africa. May men
and women work with you to make all things new; being dead to
sin and alive in Jesus Christ, may we reign with him in glory
now and in all eternity. Amen
READINGS FOR THE WEEK
Mark 15: 42 – 47; John 20: 1 ‐18; Luke 24: 1 – 12; Luke
23; 47 – 49; John 11: 1 – 26; John 12: 1 –
8
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