Tearfund Lent Devotional Day 44

The way of non-violence

‘“My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight… But now my kingdom is from another place.”’ (John 18:36, NIV)

Jesus – betrayed by his friend. Jesus – taken by force to stand trial. Jesus – denied by those he openly loved.

I feel anger on his behalf. It swells like sadness in my bones, deep and heavy. Eyes closed, past events and emotions play in my mind, of times I have felt injustice, witnessed injustice, been denied justice.

Jesus – stands calmly. Jesus – speaks firmly, but gently. Jesus – chooses peace.

It was not easy; the night was dark and close, and sweat mingled with tears and blood as Jesus came to terms with what he needed to do.

Peace can feel like an aching dream when you’re still in the midst of darkness; when the sun has yet to rise. What is it that keeps us alive in these raw moments before dawn breaks?

This Maundy Thursday, we weep for the injustices in the world. We weep for the peace we ache to see. Where there is anger and pain, deep within us and jarring to get out, we remember the path of peace so gently trodden, so gently spoken, by a rabbi.

Let us flee from cycles of retribution – it is just chains that keep the anger locked to us. As we share in bread and wine, we remember that there is another way. A new kingdom. There is peace. And there is hope. A sunrise.

Jesus, you are the way, the truth and the life. I lay down my kingdom and humbly seek to help you build yours. Let your kingdom come today in my life. Let me be an outpouring of your justice, love, mercy and grace to others. Amen.

Rachael Adams

Rachael is the Editor of One Voice in Prayer