Yesterday, on International Women's Day, I was thinking about the women who made a difference. Emmeline Pankhurst took "Deeds not words" as the motto for the Women's Social and Political Union [1903]. She and her 'suffragettes' were more radical, and engaged in direct action than the earlier 'suffragists'. These led by Millicent Fawcett and the National Union of Women's Suffrage Societies [1897]. Millicent and co were engaged in campaigning and lobbying - but avoided the brick-throwing, paint-daubing, bomb-planting violent actions. It was 1918 before any women got the vote, and 1928 before all were enfranchised on the same terms as men.
Liz sent me this great photo which she took at the weekend. Millicent is now draped in the Ukrainian flag. I also came across another challenging picture
It is easy to just watch the news and say how awful it is - not so easy to give time to prayer, and resources to help. I am glad that my friends here in the village, and those at my church have been generous and continue to give to the Ukrainian Relief Fund. I am encouraged by the number of blogs I am reading at the moment which are showing support.
Galatians 6 challenges us "We must not become tired of doing good. We must not give up!"
Both words and deeds have a part to play, don't they?
ReplyDeleteYes - wise words and good deeds are always needed
DeleteThe draping of the statue is wonderful. All the quotes are challenging to us and that's a good thing.
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DeleteIt is so touching to see people waiting at borders with notices welcoming people into their homes. There seem to be so many thoughts about sending clothing etc, with some sites saying only send money. It's hard to know what is best, but several of us got a big box of clothes together and hoped it would go to the right place.
ReplyDeleteSimple acts of kindness mean so much...even a cup of cold water, as the Bible reminds us.
DeleteJames 2:26 Faith without deeds is dead. I try and remember that. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThank you Lyssa- a good verse to remember, and to act upon!
DeleteI believe that we also need to pray for the Russians as well. This may seem wrong to some, but they are being fed lies and their youngsters are being sent off to this horrible unnecessary invasion, while their mothers worry at home. The majority of Russian people are not rich oligarchs and thousands are being imprisoned for peacefully protesting against the invasion of Ukraine. There is a 40 mile long convoy heading towards Kyiv which has not moved for days (thank goodness!). I wonder about those involved, are they stuck helplessly without food and water and heat, and does Putin even care?
ReplyDeleteThank you for this comment. You are right that so many of the ordinary Russian people are unwilling participants. I listened to a priest from the Russian Orthodox church speaking about this on the radio on Sunday. Yes, they need our prayers too 🙏
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