Meeting Violence with Kindness
It seems like we are confronted with acts of violence every day. The news is filled with stories and pictures.
When we think of violence, we often imagine weapons, wars, or open aggression. Yet violence also comes quietly, slipping into our daily lives through words and attitudes. A grumpy response, a harsh remark, an unfriendly tone. These are small violences that can wound more deeply than we realize. Do we respond with violence?
The Bible Says...
Scripture reminds us that we always have another choice. The primary purpose of the Book of Proverbs is to teach wisdom. "A mild answer calms wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger" (Proverbs 15:1). St. Paul writes about Mutual Love in his Letter to the Romans. He teaches, "Do not repay anyone evil for evil; be concerned for what is noble in the sight of all (Romans 12:17). He goes on to teach "Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good" (Romans 12:21).
The Sermon on the Mount
Jesus challenges us to go even further in the Love of Enemies. "But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father." (Matthew 5:44).
The empty chair in the photograph might remind us of the distance harshness creates. A quiet reminder of those who feel pushed aside or unwelcome, but kindness can pull out the chair again. Kindness opens the blinds, lets the light in, and makes space for another person to sit down and feel at home.
The empty chair can remain a sign of distance or it can become an invitation. When we respond to grumpiness, unfriendliness or anger with patience and gentleness, we place a chair back at the table.
Living the Message of God's Kingdom
Every day we are faced with a choice: to mirror the coldness we encounter, or to meet it with gentleness. Choosing kindness is not weakness, it is strength. It is the strength of Christ Jesus, who didn't meet violence with retaliation, but with love that transforms the world. Kindness may not change another person immediately, but it changes the space between us. It keeps the chair from staying empty, and it reminds us that peace always has a place to sit down.
Remembering 24 Years Ago
Every year on September 27th, the Church bells throughout the Canton of Zug ring at 12 noon in remembrance of the 14 members of the Zug Parliament who were gunned down in the Parliament Bulding. We also remember all who have died at the hands of violence.
Photo: K. Curjel, Gioiosa Marea, Sicily
