Hope in the darkest of times
This month, Anna Houghton, Supporter Engagement Officer for Liverpool, reflects on the hope that Easter symbolises.
When I look at a map of the world, and the countries where Mary’s Meals is feeding more than 2.4 million children each day in their place of education, it can be quite easy to feel overwhelmed with the amount of conflict, sorrow, pain and hunger in so many places. We are living in a world right now that can seem hopeless.
One of the countries that my mind and prayers continue to come back to is Ethiopia. The situation in Tigray is one that may feel devoid of hope, as we learn more about the plight of a people who have lived through a long civil war, drought and are now facing rebuilding an infrastructure and an economy that are in tatters. Millions are in need of emergency food aid – what possible reason could they have for finding hope?
Yet I think these people are some of the most hopeful people. As they walk the dusty roads, seeking food, seeking peace and a way forward, they find hope in the generosity of those who also have very little and yet are willing to share. One of the stories from Tigray is of children at school sharing their one meal a day with those who have nothing, who have turned up at the school in the hope they can find food. This reminds me of the words of Jesus in Luke’s Gospel, watching a poor widow give all she has in the Temple and saying to those around him:
“This poor widow gave only two small coins. But the truth is, she gave more than all those rich people. They have plenty, and they gave only what they did not need. This woman is very poor, but she gave all she had to live on.”
The celebration of Easter that is almost upon us is one that carries a central message of hope – the hope given through Jesus’ resurrection, the hope of new beginnings. We need more than ever to not just welcome the Easter message of hope but to live it out in our daily interactions, as so many who support Mary’s Meals do - sharing stories, just as the first Christians did, so that others may join with us to share their little acts of love.
Thank you for everything that you do to support the work of Mary’s Meals so that we can continue to reach children like those in Tigray who are searching for food and hope.
With prayers and every blessing to you and your families this Easter,
Anna Houghton
Supporter Engagement Officer
Pray With Us:
- We pray for the millions of people across the world who wake up to face another day without food or shelter. May our care and active concern bring them the hope they most need.
- We pray for our local partner in Ethiopia and all those who are caring for the people of Tigray who are still unable to return to their homes. May they reflect the example of Christ to the people they encounter, and bring hope through their actions and words, and inspire us to do the same.
- As we journey towards the celebration of Easter and the hope of the resurrection, may we do all we can to bring hope to those around us who feel lost or alone. Just as the first disciples recognised Jesus when they shared food together in Emmaus, may we recognise the presence of Christ in the work of all those involved in the Mary’s Meals family.
