Christians in the face of violence

28 February 2022

By Rev Kenneth Mtata

Today’s readings

• Psalm 35:11-28; 

• Exodus 35:1-29; 

• Acts 10:9-23a

Verse of the day

“Lord, you have seen this; do not be silent.

    Do not be far from me, Lord” (Psalm 35:22)

The last few days we saw the outbreak of frightening violence both internationally and locally. The attack on Ukraine by Russia has caused untold anxiety in Europe and the rest of the western world. The numbers of the dead and injured is increasing. There are chances of the situation worsening. Back in our own country, we saw violence break up at a rally of the opposition in Kwekwe at which a number of people were injured. We understand someone could have lost his life. The rhetoric of violent conflict is now rising and the actions we saw yesterday could be a sign of the things to come before the 2023 elections. 

Many Christians do not know how to talk about or respond to politically motivated violent conflict. They don't want to be labelled to belong to one political side or the other or to be delving into politics. Some may choose just to close their eyes and ears so that they pretend not see or hear about violence. They hope when they open their eyes things will have become normal again so that they continue with their normal "spiritual" life.

However, as we come to the time of lent, we are reminded that the son of God suffered humiliating violence at the hands of the Romans in connivance with the Jewish religious authorities. It was this violent death that purchased our peace, the peace that we and the rest of the world must enjoy together. On the cross all forms of violence were condemned.

Enduring the pain on the cross Jesus would have recalled the Psalm, “Lord, you have seen this; do not be silent. Do not be far from me, Lord” (Psalm 35:22), or the most familiar: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?” (Psalm 22:1). 

If you are not sure what to do or say about the violence we are starting to see here in our own country or in the rest of the world, especially in Ukraine, at least pray with the Psalmist: “I went about mourning as though for my friend or brother. I bowed my head in grief as though weeping for my mother”

 (Psalm 35:14). This is a Psalm of lamentation which can provide words for us to mourn for our nation and the world. If you cannot do or say anything about violence, at least, go before God and cry and mourn for those who are currently suffering as though they were your brothers and sisters. Identify with those who are suffering violence because God has always taken the side of those who are violently treated. 

What you cannot afford to do is to be indifferent in the face of violence and still claim to be a follower or disciple of Jesus Christ. Remember that the "Lord tests the righteous, but his soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence" (Psalm 11:5).

Prayer:

Our God do not forsake us in the face of violence. Protect your people from those who love spilling blood. Calm us in the face of violent conflict. We have no power to save ourselves or others. You who suffered death and rose again, can defend us from the danger that we fear. Bring peace to Ukraine and Zimbabwe, God. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen