Lent. A time for reflection and repentance to end in reconciliation. But the violence of the world keeps pushing back against it. The violence we are witnessing comes in many forms: the horrific hard bombing attack in Gaza, king more than 400 in one night and the threats against federal judges or pulling Secret Service protection for Biden’s children. All these actions are measures of violence, fueled by anger and hate.
There doesn’t seem to be much reflection as attacks on federal judges escalate into demands for impeachment when they call for due process, a right guaranteed in the Constitution for all persons, not just citizens. There doesn’t seem to be any repentance as the Israeli government continues to bomb and starve the people of Gaza.
Where or when will we find reconciliation? Do we expect it after Lent in the hope of Easter? Reconciliation just doesn’t happen by itself. It takes hard work and a willingness on both sides. Partial cease fires, such as Putin agreed to, is not reconciliation, but it’s at least something. Whether here at home or abroad reconciliation requires a change of heart, not something we see in anyone with making decisions of life and death.
Prayer for the Day
Afraid, not just of the changing world around us,
But of where our questions sometimes lead us,
Troubled because the old answers no longer apply
We feel adrift as a ship without a rudder,
Help us, O God, to explore new ways of serving you
With hope and always open to your surprises.
In the name of the One who lived to bring us hope,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision. The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose.
Chief Justice John Roberts in a statement released Tuesday
The latest attacks come as lifesaving aid remains blocked from entering Gaza, compounding the risks to children. It has been sixteen days since the last truck delivering humanitarian aid crossed into Gaza. In addition, electricity has been cut to the main desalination plant, significantly reducing the amount of potable water.
Catherine Russell, UNICEF
You will be in the right, O Lord, when I lay charges against you;
But let me put my case to you. Why does the way of the guilty prosper?
Why do all who are treacherous thrive?
Jeremiah 12: 1