Who is to Blame?

The current trend to blame others for the suffering and death that is endemic to existence in this universe only serves to increase suffering.

If we believe in an all powerful God who created the universe, we are confronted with the reality that if anyone is to blame for the existence suffering and death, it is God.

And miraculously, for Christians, along comes Jesus, vocally, physically, and spiritually, accepting the blame for the endemic suffering and death of existence, on behalf of God, and on behalf of humanity.

And just as vocally, physically, and Spiritually, calling Christians to look upon the Cross, a symbol of our own suffering and death, a symbol of our own cruelty toward each other, to look upon the Cross for hope and ultimate healing. As Moses lifted up a cross in the desert so that those who gazed upon it would be be healed of the poison from asps in the wilderness.

In today's environment, the poison is blame. Yes, there are those in power who blame vulnerable people for endemic suffering, and actively increase suffering of vulnerable people. But putting energy into blaming Trump and his followers is also poisonous, and adds to the suffering and division. Blame is the poison, it blackens the hearts and souls of even the most peace loving and faithful.

As Christians, during this time of Lent, may we gaze upon the Cross, acknowledge the endemic suffering and death in which we participate, and find inspiration to release the poison of blame, and to instead participate in work of bringing healing, hope, and reconciliation to all people, and to all of creation. This is our task, this is our purpose, this is our gift, as Christians and as humans. To use our creative gifts not for blame, but mitigating suffering and bringing about healing and reconciliation.