Mocking

Then the assembly rose as a body and brought Jesus before Pilate. They began to accuse him, saying, ‘We found this man perverting our nation, forbidding us to pay taxes to the emperor, and saying that he himself is the Messiah, a king.’ Then Pilate asked him, ‘Are you the king of the Jews?’ He answered, ‘You say so.’ Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, ‘I find no basis for an accusation against this man.’ But they were insistent and said, ‘He stirs up the people by teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee where he began even to this place.’ When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. And when he learned that he was under Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him off to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had been wanting to see him for a long time, because he had heard about him and was hoping to see him perform some sign. He questioned him at some length, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently accusing him. Even Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him; then he put an elegant robe on him and sent him back to Pilate. That same day Herod and Pilate became friends with each other; before this they had been enemies. Luke 23:1-12

We have seen too much name calling and mocking done by those who would be public servants and political leaders. That kind of cruelty is juvenile and denotes a discomfort or fear in the one who does the mocking. Adults, comfortable in themselves, do not mock, call names and treat others with contempt. Dignity is what every human being, every living creature deserves. I cannot follow those who find fame by destroying others.  Teh greatest gift we can share with others is to restore dignity when it has been taken and treat one another with respect and honor.

Creator God, you put beauty in all creation

you bestowed honor even the smallest creatures

you know us each by our very own names

and your love for each is truly everlasting.

We have lived as if we are at war always

making friends with  dangerous enemies

our choices are based on power and gain

and not on building up your love here.

Help us to turn from the childish cruelties

and help us restore dignity and honor

let us serve by honoring the whole person

and making room at the table for everyone. Amen.