Many Faces of Wisdom
Wisdom in Proverbs
Live in the light of God (Isaiah 2:5)
The Call to Wisdom
Matthew 26:47-52 New International Version
Jesus Arrested
47 While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 48 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.”49 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him.
50 Jesus replied, “Do what you came for, friend.”[ a]
Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him.51 With that, one of Jesus’ companions reached for his sword, drew it out and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.
52 “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.
For Reflection
A primary contrast in regulating human behavior was that of Jesus and Rome. Both sought peace, Rome used violent retribution to control the people, Jesus, on the other hand, sought peace through spiritual transformation and non-violent reform of systemic domination. Over two thousand years have passed, and the same two approaches conflict. The question still remains. Do we solve our social and economic unrest through the violent suppression of the symptoms of systemic injustices, or do we work collaboratively to address the root of the rebellion?
Pray
Pray for the wisdom of God to inform those who are responsible for resolving the problem of civil unrest. Pray for the nonviolent peacemakers. Pray for the reconciliation of those whose voices who cry out in pain.
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