In her book, as we forgive: Stories of Reconciliation from Rwanda, catherine claire larson provides readers with seven compelling stories of “great” persons. On the cover of her book is a little boy with a stick in his right hand and a sandal in his left. A large hat covers half of his face. He is walking with determination—he has a destination to get too. Adjacent to this picture is a man, walking with what appears to be the same determination. Their strides are complimentary. In place of the little boy’s stick is a machete, in the right hand of the man. He carries a water gourd in his left hand. The sandal in the little boy’s hand may be a gift he intends to give to someone who needs it. It may also be the last possession or reminder he has of a love one. The water gourd carried by the man may be a gift or it may be for him and other sojourners.
Remember, the little boy’s face is partially covered. We can’t see exactly who he is. We can’t see his eyes, which would help to convey meaning…and understanding. But we are able to see his lips. Lips that are neither smiling nor frowning. Lips that are simply together. Lips that seem to speak: “This is my life now.” On the other hand, the photograph of the man is taken mid-chest. There is no way to extract meaning from his facial expressions. Questions abound with these two juxtaposed photographs. But one question perplexes me: Without the gift of reconciliation, does this little boy become the man without a face, carrying a machete and a gourd of water. Is the machete for protection or for revenge? Is the water for self preservation alone or also for sharing?
In our lesson today, McKnight calls us to the task of being a Christian. Reminding us that in so doing, we may forever be nameless and faceless. But the introverted questions we may need to ask are: Am I carrying the Gospel—the Good News of Jesus Christ—for protection or for revenge. Is it for self—preservation alone or also for sharing? Psalm 23 has these words: Your rod and your staff, they comfort me; the Gospel, Put away your sword.
Perhaps, the more important question is: What will be the destination of those we meet if we refuse the gift of reconciliation, the gift of love mixed with forgiveness and tears? What kind of adult will little boys and little girls become? And, what about the man and woman who are still carrying that hurt little boy and girl inside?
On this 18th day of Lent, let’s put away our sword(s)!