This week I saw a sign that read "16 Days...." and was pleasantly surprised to find someone recognising the importance of the 16 Days of Activism against Abuse of Women and Children! Except than on closer inspection the sign read"16 days until Christmas"...
As Christmas draws near I am reflecting on the phrase from Isaiah that John the Baptiser proclaims: "Prepare a way for our Lord and make straight his paths"
What would we do if we knew that Jesus was coming to visit our community in the near future? What would we want to change?
the "16 Days" campaign is helping us to recognise the violent nature of the society in which we live.... Perhaps if we were to "prepare a way" we might encourage conversation about the problem of Abuse rather than living in denial and continuing to avoid talking about the obvious problem that exists.
I have been wondering about a public statement of apology from men to women and children who have been abused. Would it make any sense for men (who aren't necesarily the culprits of abuse) to make a symbolic apology on behalf of men in general? Could we apologise for our silence and ongoing denial of the problem?
FInally, I believe that one achievable and meaningful change we could make is to use inclusive language as a clear step toward inclusion and dignity of all people regardless of gender.
Will we as the Christian Community be seen to be clearly aligned with those who are vulnerable and hurting? Or will our silence leave us seeming complicit with the perpetrators?
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