Hello –
This Lent I’m inviting the greater St. Paul’s community to fast from retaliation. Our model is Jesus. Despite betrayal, and unjust trial, mockery, derision, abandonment and physical harm, Jesus never retaliates. In fact, his words from the cross are “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”
If the Christian life consists in the imitation of Jesus, how can we, for at least this period of Lent, follow Jesus in his way of non-retaliation?
I will be reflecting on this question with you throughout Lent, as I already have in our recent Transcending Contempt Practice Group and in my last two sermons. I’ve captured the heart of my reflections in a brief essay. The essay includes suggestions for how to practice non-retaliation in thought, word and deed.
Email me at c.h.mrtn@gmail.com if you would like me to send you this less-than-four-page essay. I will also place a stack of them on the temporary altar by the door to Duncan Hall.
May we fast from retaliation this Lent and so be a community of peace, mercy, and reconciliation.
Blessings,
Christopher
p: (415) 456-4842