Admin April 1st, 2009
The last few months have shown us all that, despite the grandest of hopes and the best of intentions, the old cycle of Boom and Bust is anything but broken. The effects of a shrinking economy are reflected on our high street, where more shop premises now lie empty. And they’re played out most painfully in homes and families where redundancy and repossession are real threats (Crowborough & Rotherfield Churches Together are working to respond in care and practical help to those in our community who find themselves facing money and debt issues; please speak to one of our Churches Together reps to find out more).
There is, however, one cycle that has been decisively broken – and this not by any feat of fiscal prowess or political acumen. For God has done for us what we could not do for ourselves: the terrible, damning tragedy of human violence and alienation has been addressed once and for all upon the Cross of Calvary. The crucifixion of Jesus exposes the human tendency always to seek out and identify someone upon whom all our indignation and anger can be vented – someone whom we can blame. And the punishment of this victim, it is supposed, will restore calm to the community.
So Jesus was chosen to be this victim, to bear the brunt of our wrath. The one who was like us, and yet somehow different from us (for this has always been the mark of a scapegoat), was condemned and executed with the intention that one man’s death should ensure peace for the nation (John 11:49-52).
Yet his death was not the final word: for Jesus rose in power on the third day, overturning the judgement that had been laid upon him and declaring that in him healing and restoration are to be found. In the risen Christ, the victim returns not to exact revenge but to breathe forgiveness; and the Cross shall forever stand, not as the place of condemnation, but as the sign and standard of God’s boundless love.
This same love which reached across the chasm of crucifixion, was then poured into human hearts in the coming of God’s Spirit at Pentecost. And we who affirm this love, are summoned to demonstrate it also in our lives: love that is no mere feeling or attitude, but love that is measured and constituted by its deeds.
So let us learn how to serve, and in our lives enthrone him;
each other’s needs to prefer – for it is Christ we’re serving.
Tags: boom and bust, crucifixion, cycle of violence, easter, economy, holy week, love, pentecost, resurrection, scapegoat, service
The date has been set, the parties mobilised, and within the first week of May we shall know the flavour of the nation’s government for the next few years.
Two of the themed services have now taken place, providing us the opportunity to reflect upon our varied perspectives, to celebrate the common ground between us, and to think about how we might continue to grow together in faith and discipleship.