Historical setting: 602 C.E. Metz
The bishop only scoffs at my suggestion that a Christian birthright assumes pacifism and apparently, he doesn’t see that as courage.
“But your holiness, wasn’t Christian pacifism taught and exemplified by Jesus? And wouldn’t you say that Jesus showed great courage calling out his forgiveness from the cross?”
“The crucifixion can hardly be compared to guard duty in the service of a bishop.”
“Of course, your holiness. I just mean to say, Ana and I have raised these children to be men of conscience, skilled in academics and versed in the gospels. The courage of pacifism is bound in the Jesus message to love even one’s enemies. That would preclude killing a person even for the sake of duty or personal safety.
“It happened recently in Châlons. A nobleman fit for war fled. But Greg and his brother procured my rescue. Which kind of guard are you seeking in the face of danger — the one who runs away, or one who retaliates death for death, or the one who rescues without violence?”
The bishop takes a pause, as though his own sermon must start with a silent prayer. “You understand, Ezra, Christianity is more than just the gospels. St. Paul fits the Christian guard with the whole armor of God.” [Ephesians 6:13-17]
“Yes, your holiness, with a breastplate of righteousness, and a belt of truth… is that how your guards are prepared? Your holiness, I wouldn’t object to his drawing from that truth belt, if it were sword of the Spirit — the Word of God. Maybe you will find his usefulness in the shoes spreading the gospel of peace?”
“Papa, but I’m already good with inks and words I really need to learn the actual iron sword.”
Now this bishop smirks at my argument, as he seems to grope for some kind of legendary wisdom.
“Ezra, good man, I’ve seen so many youthful guards in training, flashing swords crimson in fearsome enemy blood, and when these guardsmen are fully grown the luster of the sword tarnishes. Then what use have I, for them? They are either failed warriors or they are murderers. But when this child matures beyond the sword, he may become the trusted messenger of peace to meet your expectation and he may still be of service. What better guard could a bishop have? Even though Gregory is a commoner, and only indentured to me for a decade, I can promise his many gifts will be valued here.”
(Continues Tuesday, July 18)
Lazarus Ink 