[Flag showing solidarity with Ukraine, 1110 The Alameda] Station 9: Jesus falls for the third time

In the front window of this house on The Alameda, we see the Ukrainian flag. Displaying this flag has become a symbol of solidarity with the Ukrainian people as others all over the world witness the violent aggression, attacks and murders from Vladimir Putin’s Russia on its neighbor. This sin of violence causes us all to fall as violence begets violence in a cycle that has spun throughout history. In the face of violence, we see Jesus fall a third time while carrying his cross.

Yet, people have the power to stop cycles of violence. Through the active nonviolent resistance of the Ukrainian and even the Russian people, the world has watched resilience, creativity and a refusal to become part of the violence we all oppose. And through humanitarian aid, sanctions, and other forms of resistance and pressure, many other world powers and citizens have actively participated in opposing this unjust war. There are, of course, Christians in Russia and Christians in Ukraine. When any part of the body of Christ is in pain or suffering, we all suffer. May the body of Christ be well.

Station 9: Jesus falls a third time