Reimagining security: A Bible study series

Reflection

Introduction

Many Christians grow up repeating the famous and powerful words of Christ in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5), sometimes without realising how difficult it can be to live out these words. I was born and grew up in Palestine, a very unsettled area. I have always found it a challenge to show true forgiveness. On the one hand, it was important to learn how to forgive. On the other, it was not always easy to forgive those who trespassed against me. No matter how hard I tried to forgive, I could not reach it, until I encountered the great love of Christ who has forgiven my own sins. I then realised that it is not by my own strength or wisdom, but through the power Jesus gives me that I can do all things through him who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). Not only to forgive my neighbours, but also to love and show them kindness and gentleness, as I develop the fruit of the Holy Spirit. I continue to be aware of the place where I live, which is daily full of hatred, bitterness and injustices. But, because I have accepted Christ and his love, I can view things with a different lens. I have learnt to pray for those who do not yet know Jesus.

As I write (in July 2023), the very place that witnessed the birth, life, death and resurrection of Christ is full of tension. How can we as a church, albeit a minority of less than one per cent, be a witness in this complex region? How can we share the love and forgiveness of Christ who is full of grace and mercy (John 1)?

Jesus wants to extend his love to all his creation. Now, not only have I experienced the power of forgiveness that breaks barriers and crosses divides but I also want to share this experience with others. I have lost relatives, friends and also my own freedom in this conflict. Yet, I still believe in the power of forgiveness and love.

Forgiveness reminds us that this is a way we extend God’s kingdom – by resisting evil and praying for a kingdom of peace here on earth.

Discussion questions

• What does Jesus teach about the ‘other’ who makes us feel insecure and unsafe?

• What does ‘blessedness’ look like in Matthew 5?

• Can you think of examples where someone has entered your space or crossed your boundary without your permission? How did that make you feel?

• Why do you think Jesus calls us to forgive when people have crossed boundaries or entered spaces without permission?

• How can we be a witness to others by showing forgiveness and mercy?

• Think of one practical thing that you can do to bless someone who has mistreated you.