Reflections on violence and peace as we enter Advent

Two months ago the leadership teams of all of the congregations of Holy Cross signed a statement on non-violence and just-peace .

Several weeks ago, I was asked to do an hour-long presentation on violence that was supposed to take place one evening this past week.  Although I prepared for it, the meeting did not happen.  Yet my preparation may have been worthwhile as the concepts found their way into my thoughts, perceptions, and prayers recently.

It is so easy to see examples of various forms of violence being played out when I read the world news online or hear the stories of people I encounter.  It seems that there are too many examples of people intentionally harming others.  When the definition of violence is broadened to including structural violence then creating, maintaining or changing laws with the intent of denying people access to basic needs is violent.  Making it more difficult for working and middle-class people to obtain their right to health care is violent. Denying a refugee who is fleeing a dangerous situation a welcome is violent.  Sending the immigrant home when there are no jobs and their basic needs will not likely be met in their home country is violent.  When we consider the concept of cultural violence then treating one language (and therefore those who master it) as better than another language especially if those who don't speak it are excluded is violent. Political leaders "retweeting" videos that inaccurately portray people of a specific religion in a negative way is violent.  There is so much violence in the world;  it is tempting to despair.     

 If the liturgical season of Advent, which begins today, is to be about preparing to welcome the Prine of Peace then it is truly a time of hope.  Let us recognize the violence that surrounds us as well as the violence inside our own hearts that needs to be healed.  Let us be transformed that we may become the hope that our world needs.  Let each of us, in the places we find ourselves, give birth to the peace and justice that our world is hungering and waiting for during this time in the history of our world and during this liturgical season of Advent.

Let us pray for one another.  Advent blessings!

This poinsettia plant in our yard appears to be preparing for the Feast of Christmas.