The Power of Non-Retaliation: A Path to Better Relationships
In the high-stakes world of professional hockey, there’s an unspoken rule: hard hits are acceptable, but outright fights are not. This understanding allows for fast-paced, physical gameplay without the distraction of mid-ice brawls. It’s a recipe for better hockey, and it got me thinking: what if we applied this same principle to other areas of life?
Imagine if we eliminated fighting from politics, international relations, and even our own neighborhoods. Would we see a marked improvement in the way we interact with each other? It’s likely. But what about closer to home? What if we chose to abandon fighting in our workplaces, homes, and relationships with colleagues, friends, and family?
Jesus taught us to take a radically different approach to conflict. In Luke 6:29, he instructs us to turn the other cheek when faced with aggression. But that’s not all – he goes on to say that if someone takes our coat, we should offer them our shirt as well. This isn’t about being weak or passive; it’s about choosing not to engage in the cycle of violence and retaliation.
As Donald Kraybill notes in The Upside Down Kingdom, a blow to the right cheek was a deeply offensive act in Jewish culture, punishable by a fine equivalent to a year’s wages. By telling us to turn the other cheek, Jesus is essentially saying that we should refuse to retaliate, even in the face of extreme provocation.
Fighting for What’s Right, Without Fighting
I’m not suggesting that we should avoid standing up for what we believe in or fighting for justice. But I do think we can do so in a way that doesn’t involve physical or verbal violence. By choosing to defuse conflicts through apology, listening, and understanding, we can create space for reconciliation and growth.
So the next time you find yourself in a heated situation, take a deep breath and look for ways to de-escalate the tension. Remember that you have the power to choose how you respond, and that by turning the other cheek, you might just help your opponent realize their wrongdoing.
A Prayer for Peace
God, help me to see that you call us to love everyone, even our enemies. Give me the strength to seek peaceful solutions to conflicts, and to fight faithfully for what is right and good. Amen.
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