Reflections and Ideas

“Much of Christianity seems to have forgotten Jesus’ teachings on nonviolence. We’ve relegated visions of a peaceful kingdom to a far distant heaven, hardly believing Jesus could have meant we should turn the other cheek here and now.”
Richard Rohr

Violence has always plagued the human race. The past years however, have shown an escalation of violence in our homes, cities, churches, country, and world. Racism, sexism, fear of “the other” drives this violence as does poverty and hatred.

What is our role in stemming the tide of violence? What can realistically be done by an individual or even a group of people? Our baptism calls us to live with love, respect, and peace.

What follows are some reflections and ideas on how we may embrace a non-violent life.

Vow of Nonviolence

Recognizing the violence in my own heart, yet trusting in the goodness and mercy of God, I vow for one year to practice the nonviolence of Jesus who taught us in the Sermon on the Mount: 

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons and daughters of God…You have learned how it was said, ‘You must love your neighbor and hate your enemy;’ but I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you. In this way, you will be daughters and sons of your Creator in heaven.”

I vow to carry out in my life the love and example of Jesus:

  • By striving for peace within myself and seeking to be a peacemaker in my daily life;
  • By refusing to retaliate in the face of provocation and violence; by persevering in nonviolence of tongue and heart;
  • By living conscientiously and simply so that I do not deprive others of the means to live;
  • By actively resisting evil and working nonviolently to abolish war and the causes of war from my own heart and from the face of the earth.

God, I trust in Your sustaining love and believe that just as You gave me the grace and desire to offer this, so You will also bestow abundant grace to fulfil it.

The Prevalence of Gun Violence in the United States of America

Gun Violence Archive (GVA), a not-for-profit organization which educates and provides a daily listing of mass shootings in America as defined by 4 or more people injured or killed. Kindly follow this link for statistics

What can I do about this issue?

  • Contact your congress people, representatives and senators.
  • Urge safe storage and use of any firearms you may own
  • Be attuned to language usage and strive for dialogue when hot topics arise
  • Do not hesitate to call 911 if you suspect an issue
  • Continue to pray for peace

A Prayer for Healing

Dear God,

Lead us back to your vision of a peaceful kingdom.
May your love bring healing to both the victims and the perpetrators of hate.
May your love inspire us to work toward a world of non-violence.

Amen.