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| Dietrich Bonhoeffer/ Bing Search |
A Story of Moral Courage
Most of us can hardly imagine the anguish of carrying
out a protest that will likely result in severe punishment if not a painful death.
Jesus of course took on the oppressive juggernaut of his religious leaders and
the Roman rulers who were ready for trouble during Passover celebrations of ancestors
who escaped the brutality of the Egyptian empire.
The contrast between the Kingdom of God and the Roman
Empire is most evident on Palm Sunday as Jesus humbly entered the eastern gate
on a donkey whilst the fully armed Roman warriors entered the western gate on
horseback ready to suppress any rabble rousers during Passover.
As a clergyman
and theologian, Bonhoeffer would know these Jesus stories. This is a thoughtful
man who taught and lived St Paul’s metaphor of a living sacrifice.
Sacrifices are best seen as gifts shared by people full of love and
appreciation. Such people have passion and compassion. They are passionately
committed to a way of life. And that way of life is one of deep compassion for
people. You can glimpse Bonhoeffer’s passion in two books. As a young man I
read The Cost of Discipleship. Later, I learned of Bonhoeffer’s passion
for community in Life Together. What impresses me is his authenticity.
Bonhoeffer could have lived a safe life in the United States,
but he chose to care for his fellow Germans and returned to his homeland in
1939. He wasn’t just an academic theologian. He was a man of moral courage who
was committed to the German resistance movement from the beginning. It’s rare
to find leaders who live the life they proclaim. Bonhoeffer is an example of an
authentic Christian. As a German, he had first-hand knowledge of the Nazi’s
atrocities. He acted against those evil powers. People who take on political
and religious powers have to know their lives are continually at risk.
Throughout history, true leaders, act in the best
interests of others. In doing so, they sacrifice their personal pursuits, their
wellbeing, and even their lives for the sake of those they care about. The
histories indicate that Bonhoeffer continued to encourage his fellow prisoners
until his last day. Until the end, Bonhoeffer was a living sacrifice. Long
before he was hanged, he had died to self-centred living.
The people I know aren’t facing down evil empires. But
I do know people who are thoughtful givers. They are tuned in to the needs of
those around them and quickly respond when someone is hurting. Some do go out
on the streets and protest against injustice. Others give money or time to make
other lives better.
Notes
I owe the thought about Bonhoeffer to Marcus Borg who mentioned the event years
ago.
A common view of Jesus’ sacrifice is known as
atonement theology, credited to Anselm’s
who developed his theology about 1,000 years after Jesus’ crucifixion.
Bonhoeffer’s book on Ethics was published after
his death. I’ve read that as well as the other books mentioned above. I recommend
his works to those interested in appreciating an example of intelligent and authentic
faith.
Bonhoeffer’s Works
Resources on Bonhoeffer’s life.
Britannica.com
Geoffrey W. Sutton, PhD is Emeritus
Professor of Psychology. He retired from a clinical practice and was
credentialed in clinical neuropsychology and psychopharmacology. His website
is www.suttong.com
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