Lessons from Gandhi…
It is Saturday night, Nov. 8th as I write these words. Perhaps by the time you are reading this, the Grand Jury has released the results of its probe into the shooting death of Michael Brown. Perhaps they have not. Perhaps things are still peaceful in our region. Perhaps they are not. But years ago, there was a scene from the movie “Gandhi” that indelibly etched itself into my memory. It bears repeating in the face of whatever decision was/will be made.
In the movie, it is the early stage of Gandhi’s career. He has met with some success, and great crowds are starting to follow him as he speaks in small, packed worship spaces and halls. He has also drawn the notice of the authorities, who are there in their uniforms, all sitting in the front row, waiting from some mistake or some excuse to ‘arrest the troublemaker.’ At one point, after Gandhi has made another stinging rebuke of the English forces that occupy his beloved India, a voice from the upper deck of the crowd shouts out: “I am ready to kill the English occupiers for you.” The soldiers all stiffen, and the tension in the crowd becomes electric. Gandhi responds: “A worthy sentiment, my brother, because in this cause, I too, am willing to give my life. There are many causes that I am prepared to die for but let me be very clear. There is no cause that I am prepared to kill for.”
That was a kind of turning point, at least for me, in my watching of the movie about one of the most effective agents of change the world has known since Jesus Christ. Gandhi’s willingness to endure suffering, to break the cyclic nature of violence still is both a dream and a challenge in our world.
To that end, Gandhi had a personal creed that rooted this non-violent resistance deep into his life.
I shall not fear anyone on Earth.
I shall fear only God.
I shall not bear ill will toward anyone.
I shall not submit to injustice from anyone.
I shall conquer untruth by truth. And in resisting untruth, I shall put up with all suffering.
As we continue to pray for healing in our community, might we be willing also to be makers of peace, in our homes, our lives and our families.
PS – Our church is open daily for people to stop in and pray during normal office hours via the side door by the parish offices. Whenever the decision is released, please feel free to stop in and spend some time praying for healing and peace in our community…