Stand up against violence and hate
Hello.
“Never be a bystander in the face of violence and hate”.
Those were the words of the UK’s King Charles at this week’s 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz towards the end of World War Two.
It’s not difficult to be a spectator as we watch the news on TV or via the internet. No matter how shocking or horrific things are, it’s easy to switch off from how the world really is.
Jesus Christ demonstrated how to speak up. At Christ’s unfair arrest just before his crucifixion Peter retaliated by drawing a sword and striking the high priest’s servant, cutting off an ear. According to Matthew 26:52 Jesus intervened and said to Peter, “Put your sword back in its place – for all who draw the sword will die by the sword”. Although Christ himself was a victim of injustice, he did not stand by and idly watch even when challenged with violence in his own defence.
What about us?
Should we follow Jesus and stand up for peace and love against violence and hate?
Best regards,
James
About the Writer:
James Henderson is a Minister in Grace Communion International.