Monday, April 1, 2002
Monday, April 1, 2002
Do not devise evil in your hearts against one another, and love no false oath; for
all these are things that I hate, says the LORD.
We need to be reminded that a young Mahatma Gandhi visited a Christian church as a
student. He was intensely drawn to the person of Jesus and the teachings of the Gospel. But
an usher refused to seat him suggesting that he go worship with his own people. What a
difference might have been made if this man who is revered by millions in the throughout the
world had been accepted that day in the spirit of Christ. The first sign of authentic conversion
is that of a life changed from hate to love.
(Zechariah 8.17
NRSV)
There is a beautiful story that comes from that tragic era. During the wave of persecutions
under Hitler, many Jews sought to pass themselves off as Christians. They even joined
churches. The Nazis were wise to such deceit. They required one Roman Catholic priest to
read a message before the mass. "Bow your heads please, and close your eyes," requested
the priest. "Will all those with Jewish fathers please leave this church." There was a slight
rustling sound as some obeyed. "Now will all those with Jewish mothers please leave." There
was more noise. Then the priest instructed the congregation to open its eyes. The crucifix
above the altar of the church
was now empty. A son of a Jewish mother had left with the others.
Dear Jesus, your love for me and my world is awesome. Please teach me your kind of love.
Amen.
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