As we enter Holy Week, the war in the Middle East rages seemingly without a clear conclusion in sight. With Palm Sunday marches, the ‘No Kings’ protests in the US, and warring parties claiming a divine mandate, we might be left wondering where is God in this? Does God pick a ‘side’?
Religion and politics… some say they should never mix! Well, the crowds on Palm Sunday thought otherwise! The cries of ‘Hosanna-Save us!’ and the waving palm branches were potent symbols of Jewish independence, recalling the days of Maccabean revolt when Jerusalem was liberated and the temple reclaimed. Pilate and the Jewish authorities were understandably on edge. What kind of King did they want? What kind of King did they need?
This week, Pope Leo X spoke into the swirl of confusion reminding us of who it is who comes into Jerusalem humbly riding a donkey. "This is our God: Jesus, King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war." "(Jesus) did not arm himself, or defend himself, or fight any war," Leo said. "He revealed the gentle face of God, who always rejects violence. Rather than saving himself, he allowed himself to be nailed to the cross."
This is the King we need! One who refuses to be hitched to our politics, who truly sets us free. The Kingdom of God now reigns above all, and at his name, Jesus, all shall bend the knee. (Phil 2: 9-11). So join your voices with confident hope to say; ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest!’.
David Spike
Pastor for Ministry and Formation
david.spike@levnt.edu.au
