For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another.
(Galatians 5.13
NRSV)
Dostoyevsky put it so powerfully in his classic novel THE BROTHERS KARAMAZOV. He pictures a scene in which Jesus returns to earth. It's the 15th century, and Jesus comes to Spain. Spain is ruled by the church. Spain is held in the sway of the Inquisition, the greatest heresy hunt of all times. The bishops of the church set down the law of Christianity. And they kill all those who don't toe the line. And here comes Jesus. He comes to Seville, while the fires of the Inquisition burn the day's quota of heretics. And Jesus comes quietly. But people seem to know him. They're drawn to him, by his gentleness, by his kindness, by his love. And he places no demands on them. A blind man cries out to see him, and he doesn't stipulate a penance. He simply opens the man's eyes to the joy of sight. And as they walk along, they come to the doors of Seville's cathedral. A procession of mourners is just leaving. They carry on their shoulders the coffin of a little girl, seven years old. And the mother throws herself at Jesus' feet and wails, "If it is Thou, raise my child!" And he does! And then comes the cardinal himself, the Grand Inquisitor. His eyes darken and his withered face grows black. He points a bony finger at Jesus, and he orders him arrested and thrown in prison. There in the dungeon, he confronts Jesus. He says, "You have no right to come back here and to mess things up for us!" He says, "You're destroying these people with your freedom! They can't handle it! They're like children! They need our rules and regulations! They need a church that keeps them huddled close in fear! Go away! Don't rock the boat! Take your freedom and leave!" And Jesus keeps silent the whole time. When the Grand Inquisitor finishes his tirade, Jesus waits for a long while. And when the Grand Inquisitor grows restless with the silence, Jesus finally stands. He says nothing. He only moves to the man's side. Then, with the tenderness of love and care, he softly kisses him. That's the only answer he gives.
Christ came to earth to love us. And love is freedom.
Dear God, help me to know and share your freedom of love. Amen.
