What does it mean to be committed to the way of Christ? How might our "pledge of allegiance" to Jesus, the Prince of Peace read? We know that our American neighbours have a pledge which includes an oath of allegiance to flag and country and God, although the latter was only included in 1954.
This past week I saw for the first time the pledge of non-violence created by Dr. Martin Luther King and others in the Civil Right Movement. As you can see above, participants were expected to sign this pledge and live by it, whatever came their way The line for "nearest relative" is ominous and practical given that many marchers were beaten and arrested. Dr. King was jailed 29 times on a variety of charges.
As I read through these "commandments" I'm moved, thinking of what those brave souls endured. I also ask myself how committed I am to the way of peace as someone who follows Jesus. They are all meaningful and personally applicable, except for the tenth, but I am particularly taken by "Refrain from the violence of fist, tongue, or heart."
- Meditate daily on the teachings and life of Jesus.
- Remember always that the non-violent movement seeks justice and reconciliation – not victory.
- Walk and talk in the manner of love, for God is love.
- Pray daily to be used by God in order that all men might be free.
- Sacrifice personal wishes in order that all men might be free.
- Observe with both friend and foe the ordinary rules of courtesy.
- Seek to perform regular service for others and for the world.
- Refrain from the violence of fist, tongue, or heart.
- Strive to be in good spiritual and bodily health.
- Follow the directions of the movement and of the captain on a demonstration.
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