The Risen Christ, RWS (Renewing Worship Songbook) #145
Devotion
Mel Gibson’s film, The Passion of the Christ, dwells unrelentingly on the suffering of Jesus. Slow-motion footage records every blow, every fall. High-tech sounds punctuate every lash. Jesus’ flayed and broken body is awash in blood. In this portrayal of the crucifixion, many find they cannot bear to look at one whose suffering eclipses all other suffering.
The risen Christ of John’s gospel is not drowned in the blood of graphic violence, but bears wounds in his hands, feet and side. On wounded feet Christ travels to the darkest places of our world. With a wounded side Christ breathes the Spirit on those whose faith wavers. With wounded hands Christ breaks the bread of communion, opening our eyes to see him clearly. With these wounds Christ stands with every sufferer, everywhere.
Hands, feet, side–these are all the wounds we need for the healing of the world.
Prayer
O Risen Christ, walk and serve and stand among us. Send us out to be your body in the world. Amen.