June 17, 2018
One of the prevailing ills in our society is domestic violence. Sometimes called “domestic abuse,” its victims can include spouses/partners, children, the elderly, or anyone within a household or family unit. And depending on the victim, the abuse may take various forms, including physical, verbal, sexual, psychological and economic. Victims also may be women or men, though the incidence is much greater among the former.
Much is written on the topic of domestic violence, and much more detailed information is available. However, as a man writing an article representing a men’s organization, I chose to address it here because of the number of women who are victims. One of the major priorities of the National Council of Presbyterian Men Inc. (NCPMI) is the prevention of domestic violence. So I bring this problem to the attention of the men who read this publication. Another priority of the NCPMI is preventing human trafficking, or “modern slavery,” as it is called. For the most part, it is men who participate in, control, promote and benefit from these atrocious actions and activities. Therefore, just as with chattel slavery over a century ago, the victims cannot throw off the yoke of abuse or bondage. Those people in control, and who are receiving whatever form of gratification or benefits they enjoy, have to get involved, take the lead even, in bringing these tragic conditions to an end — or, at least, reducing their incidence.
The pitcher is on the mound, the catcher is waiting to give the signal, and the umpire is in position, so men, step up to the plate.
Robert W. James, National Council of Presbyterian Men Inc.
Today’s Focus: Presbyterian Men
Let us join in prayer for:
PC(USA) Agencies’ Staff
Charlene Peacock, OGA
Derrick Perkins, PMA
Let us pray:
Father in Heaven, please bless, strengthen and guide us such that we will live daily to fulfill your requirement that we do justice, love kindness and walk humbly before you. In Christ’s name. Amen.
Revised Common Lectionary Readings for Sunday, June 17, 2018, the Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
First Reading 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13
Psalm 20
Second Reading 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17
Gospel Mark 4:26-34
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