Saturday March 23

Matthew 10:1-42

Pastor Sara Spohr

“See, I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves."

I recently finished a biography on the life of German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer.  During the reign of terror under Adolf Hitler in Nazi Germany, Bonhoeffer had a decision to make.  He could remain safe in America, away from the danger, destruction, and death the Third Reich was wielding.  Or he could return to his native Germany and fight for peace and freedom where his life would most certainly be in danger.

Bonhoeffer returned to Germany.  In a letter to fellow theologian Reinhold Niebuhr dated June 20, 1939, he writes:

I have made the mistake in coming to America. I must live through this difficult period of our national history with the Christian people of Germany. I will have no right to participate in the reconstruction of Christian life in Germany after the war if I do not share the trials of this time with my people…

Ultimately, Bonhoeffer’s Christian faith would not allow him to stay where he was safe, when his fellow Germans were hurting so desperately.  Bonhoeffer gives his whole life to this cause. He is arrested and imprisoned for being involved in a conspiracy to assassinate Hitler. He dies in a concentration camp just days before the war is over.  His extensive letters and other writings from prison never betray even a hint of regret. Bonhoeffer lived his whole life as a disciple of Jesus and he died with peace in his heart.

Questions for Reflection:

• What part of Bonhoeffer’s life inspires or moves you?

• What situations compel you to enter into dangerous or uncertain circumstances for the sake of your faith?

Prayer:

God, stir up courage in me that I might speak boldly, act faithfully, and respond willingly to your call.  Amen.