Time to face the threat of violence

In the States, more guns will be in evidence in schools and institutions to counter the threat of mass shootings.

Many films and television series show (mainly) men using automatic weapons to destroy “the baddies”.

News broadcasts have footage of terrorist incidents or civil uprisings resulting in dead bodies, mangled vehicles and ruined buildings.

We live in an increasingly violent society, whether real or simulated.

And Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey.

Not on a war horse, mark you, but on a donkey, in a gesture of peace-making.

He came as a peaceful King even though he knew that his end would be violent.

He had a final supper with his friends at the time of the Jewish Passover.

When lambs were slaughtered for this most important festival, the Lamb of God would go meekly to die.

He agonised in the garden of Gethsemane, as to whether he should flee or stay to face the music.

He allowed himself to be arrested and refused to put up a defence when questioned by King Herod and Pontius Pilate.

He was the victim of injustice and mob mentality.

His only weapons were those of obedience (to God), love (for all), and forgiveness (towards his enemies).

Easter Day was not the reversal of the defeat of Good Friday’s crucifixion.

Far from it. Easter Day was the vindication of Good Friday’s victory of obedience, love and forgiveness.

Jesus won the day on the Cross.

To follow Jesus is to strive for a more peaceful world, using only the weapons of righteousness.

Will you?