Water

John 19:34

One of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once blood and water poured out.

Romans 6:3–4

Do you not know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? Therefore, we were buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in newness of life.

From his pierced side flowed blood and water.
Water —the sign of birth. The sign of cleansing.
The sign of belonging.
Before we ever chose him, we were marked by water. Before we understood grace, we were washed in it.
This water is before you, dip your hands in the water. Remember your baptism.
Remember that you are loved. Embraced. Forgiven Named Beloved.

Christ’s mercy is deeper than our failure.
Violence does not have the last word.
Sin does not have the last word.
Fear does not have the last word.
Grace flows.
Peace persists.

Reflect

•       What is one small way I can embody Christ’s nonviolent love?
•       In my speech?
•       In my choices?
•       In my relationships?
•       In the courage I am willing to practice?

When you are ready, move toward the final pause.