Those in the chain of pain
They wove thorn branches into a crown and put it on his head, and they placed a reed stick in his right hand as a scepter. Then they knelt before him in mockery and taunted, “Hail! King of the Jews!”— Matthew 27:29
Those who seek to hurt others usually suffer great pain themselves. Inflicting pain on others gives those already suffering a temporary relief from their own pain. This abuse perpetuates the cycle, however. Until someone breaks the chain of pain, the abuse continues.
As you consider this scripture verse, let’s take this to heart. Maybe the someone to stop the violence will be you.
In this gut-wrenching text that recounts the last hours of Jesus’ life, let’s remember what needs our care and attention. Bullies need healing.
I’ve recently read what shouldn’t surprise most of us. People only hurt others if they do not feel compassion for others. Usually this abuse happens because no one has ever shown compassion to a broken-hearted person.
Followers of Jesus can respond with love and compassion by sharing love and compassion to those who do such painful things to others. This may require great strength or resolve, but we have an example in Jesus. He loved those who crucified Him.
PRAYER: Lord, keep my eyes open. Keep my heart calm enough (and compassionate enough) so that I can help those who hurt others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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