Who Is My Neighbor?
2022년 7월 10일Who Is My Neighbor?
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I never tire of telling the story of the Amish man who was asked if he was a Christian. He replied, “You’ll have to ask my neighbor.” I stand in awe of the Amish. They live mainly in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania but there are communities of Amish in 31 states, including Upstate New York where my family lives. They live very simply. No cars. They usually drive a horse-drawn carriage. No television or telephone or computers. They grow most of their food and make their own simple, black clothing. Their homemade furniture is prized for its careful craftsmanship. They teach their own children in one-room school houses. They read the Bible every day. But are they Christian?
In October 2006, a non-Amish man entered their one room school house and shot ten young girls, killing five. The boys he released a few minutes before. The shooter then killed himself. Within hours of this massacre the community publicly forgave the murderer. They shared their donations with his widow and stopped to pray at his house as they buried their dead children. But such forgiveness, however inspiring and admirable, came at a price. They had to renew their commitment to Christ and forgiveness ever day since then. And with every mass shooting since then their own wounds and sorrow returns. Their belief is that Christ calls them–and us–to let go. Let go of resentment. Let go of anger. Let go of thoughts of revenge. The cross of Christ demands we too must let go. Only then will the peace of Christ fill our hearts and minds. “Love your neighbor” is the only way that shows whether or not we are Christian. Who is your neighbor? Whoever suffers and needs your help and support. Think of that when you make the sign of the cross.