Which Way Will We Choose?

The crowds that gathered around Jesus did not know it yet, but they were going to be confronted with a difficult choice in the days ahead (Matthew 21:1-11) . Would they follow the way of Barabbas (armed resistance to cruelty and humiliation)? Would they choose to do nothing (comply with forces of cruelty and humiliation)? Or, would they choose the way of the Prince of Peace ([Philippians 2:5-11] nonviolent resistance to forces of cruelty and humiliation)?

The stakes were exceedingly high. Choosing the way of Barabbas meant wagering against all odds the possibility of gaining political freedom at the risk of physical death and spiritual bondage. Choosing to do nothing meant risking the possibility of earthly survival in exchange for spiritual harm (shame for not resisting). Choosing the way of Jesus meant risking physical harm and death in exchange for spiritual freedom (eternal life in the here an now).

The challenges we are facing today are not all that different from the ones the crowds were facing 2000 years ago. The question is, which way will we choose?

As part of our discussion tomorrow we will consider the below scene from Hotel Rwanda. Who is responsible to “intervene” in the face of international atrocities? What interventions are consistent with the teachings of Jesus?

Let me assure you in advance that, like you, I do not have the answers. But that doesn’t let us off of the hook. We are approaching Holy Week, after all, and it is another opportunity for us to consider just how far we are willing to follow Jesus on his way to the cross.

Let me also congratulate you in advance for choosing the way of courage — risking the possibility of being uncomfortable in exchange for the possibility of growing in faith and knowledge of God. I sincerely and profoundly respect and admire each one of you.

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