Getting in the Way

III.    Vows of Nonviolent Witness

“We pledge to act in allegiance to God alone, and to resist injustice with goodness”

10. I will speak up in defense and protection of anyone, even enemies, who are attacked with violence of word or action, even at the risk of my own life

In the historical World War II movie To End All Wars*, British Prisoners of War (POWs) in a Japanese prison camp in Burma suffer brutal treatment and excruciating forced labor at the hands of their captors. After the killing of one of their lead officers for his disrespect, some of the POWs decide the way to freedom is to organize a prisoners’ revolt. But the fatigued prisoners are unable to carry out the scheme and the leader, Major Campbell, is sentenced to death. Shockingly both to the Japanese and the other British prisoners an opponent of Major Campbell steps up to take his place. Dusty Miller, a soldier newly filled with Christ’s compassionate solidarity, vividly and sacrificially enacts today’s vow on behalf of a fellow prisoner who has treated him so poorly: “I will speak up in defense and protection of anyone, even enemies, who are attacked with violence of word or action, even at the risk of my own life.”

Throughout Christian history stories of solidarity, or standing with, have inspired the church to greater compassion and faithfulness—especially when done at the expense of one’s own life! Dusty Miller’s sacrifice for his enemy inspired other POWs to seek redemption through forgiveness and respect for their captors, rather than through violent uprising. This radical reorientation allowed them to see the ways in which their brutal captors are also humiliated victims. Throughout history, these acts on behalf of others have been inspired by Jesus’ own self-sacrifice on behalf of all people even while we were enemies with God and one another. Today Christ call and enables us to the same cross-bearing self-emptying on behalf of those in need around us.

For Reflection and Action:

1. Even though in danger himself, how does Jesus respond when someone else’s safety is also threatened in John 7:40-8:11? What new things about advocacy and self-sacrifice do you notice in this gospel account today?
2. Where have others stood with you in solidarity or defense in your times of threat or need? What are the ways Christ has stood by you?
3. Who have you spoken up for? Who is Jesus currently calling you to stand with, protect or speak up for (individuals and groups)?

(jesusmafa.com)

Prayer Focus

Jesus, Lamb of God self-sacrificed in defense of others,

We are filled with thankfulness for your solidarity with us.

Convict and empower me to do the same,

risking my own convenience, reputations, wealth, and safety

to speak up and act up in defense of the vulnerable—including my enemy.

Thank you, self-emptied God, for the compassionate strength you will provide me!

* Based from the main character Cpt. Ernest Gordon’s own written autobiographical account Miracle on the River Kwai, renamed To End All Wars in 2002. The movie is rated R for war violence and brutality as well as some course language.