While
the Russian army bombards Ukrainian citizens, and the Israeli army bombards the
last remaining operational hospital in Gaza, Jesus picks his way down the Mount
of Olives riding a young donkey.
The
animal is not used to being ridden. It needs the presence of its mother
alongside to reassure it in the sea of people. As if it were not hard enough,
the crowd are throwing down their cloaks on the ground before them, making the
descent treacherous.
When
some object, concerned that the hopes of the crowd for freedom and
self-determination might get out of hand, Jesus upholds their right to hope and
dream, but simultaneously reframes their expectations, slowing things down,
refusing to be the populist touchstone. Taking the path of humility, through
groves of olive trees.
Note
that the olive tree is a symbol of peace; that the oil they produce is an
instrument of healing; and that whenever we come across trees in the Bible,
they stand symbolically for people.
Blessed
are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God. Those who
share the DNA of their heavenly Father, the one who moves to establish
reconciliation and the restoration of conditions necessary for all to flourish
in harmony. Russian, Ukrainian. Israeli, Palestinian.
It
seems unlikely. As foolish as a man picking his way down a hillside on a young
donkey. Yet, this is how peace descends. This is the only way. Divine folly.
Not for the faint hearted. You cannot strong-arm your way to peace.
Blessed
are the peacemakers.
Lord,
have mercy.
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