During our Lenten video series on active spirituality, we watched Bonhoefer, a powerful portrayal of the life and work of the brilliant German theologian of the last century whose faith led him to become part of the resistance to Hitler, a choice that eventually cost him his life. The film depicts how Bonhoefer’s understanding of Christian discipleship centered in experiencing Christ’s presence in relationships among persons in community, and especially as they stand with and for those who are suffering (in his situation, the Jewish people). He was one of the first to speak out against Hitler’s policies at a time when most people felt the Fuhrer was good for the country. As other religious leaders signed concordats with Hitler and collaborated with his heinous government, Bonhoefer and a few others felt called to resist the killing being done in their names. In our discussion following the video, we asked “who are the Bonhoefers today?” and concluded that our congregation can witness and resist as a community as he did with others in his day. The up-coming Palm Sunday Peace Gathering and March is an immediate opportunity to take a stand and seek to be Christ’s presence as a community standing with the suffering. March 20th is the 2nd anniversary of the start of the Iraq war. It coincides with our commem-oration of the Prince of Peace entering Jerusalem to face the powers of death and empire. Wouldn’t this peace march be a fitting act of discipleship? Shalom, Maureen |
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Pastor's Corner