On the Cross

          It is infinitely easier to suffer in obedience to a human order than in the freedom of one's own, personal, responsible deed. It is infinitely easier to suffer in company than alone. It is infinitely easier to suffer publicly and with honor than out of the public eye and in disgrace. It is infinitely easier to suffer through the engagement of one's physical being than through the Spirit. Christ suffered in freedom, alone, out of the public eye and in disgrace, in body and soul, and likewise many Christians along with him.

          These are hard words about Jesus, and our faith. They are from Dietrich Bonhoeffer, one of the leading voices of Germany's Confessing Church and one of the most widely read Christian writers of the twentieth century. He was imprisoned and executed by the Nazis.

          During Lent, my morning reflection-time has included (along with that first cup of coffee) a dose of Bonhoeffer's writings about the cross. He reminds me that the cross and resurrection, suffering and overcoming death are central to Christian faith. Without Jesus' passion, his self-giving for the world, there would be no Easter. The way to the resurrection is through the cross. And Jesus calls his followers to the cross-- not to deliberate martyrdom, but to being involved in the world in ways that continue his radical love for others and for God, even at risk to our comfort and security. He reminds us that the cross is what we must choose in our daily living, and not (as is popularly thought) the natural hardships that befall us.

          That gets me thinking, and confessing, how easily I can go along with a "cross-less" Christianity. In our society, it's what often passes for Christian religion: the message that a belief in Jesus Christ and a moral life will bring rewards of health and happiness now and hereafter. It's human of us to want those things!

          But the ultimate joy of Christian living comes from seeking to be faithful to Christ, and in solidarity with all who have shared in the world's suffering for Love's sake. There is no Easter without Good Friday. There is no resurrection without the cross.

          As I write this, American bombs are falling on Baghdad. A member of the jobseekers group that met in our church ten years ago is in some trouble, and wants to see me. There is no shortage of crosses in our world. Bonhoeffer helps me find assurance and hope that through it all Christ is with us -- and in this journey, there is no better companionship than his, and yours.

          Peace,

          Rod