The friends and family of Jesus stood at a distance and watched. They passively watched the passion of their Christ. From a distance.
Looking at the passion of Jesus from a distance, I see passivity, not only in the watchers but in Jesus. He is passive. He allows it all to happen.
The word passion–in the sense of suffering–is deeply related to the word passive. It’s the idea of suffering, undergoing an experience, endured without resistance. Jesus was purposefully passive:
“When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. ‘He himself bore our sins’ in his body on the cross.”–1 Peter 2:23,24a NIV
Jesus knew after Crucifixion’s death was Resurrection. Peter’s words are prefaced by an appeal for us to follow this example of Jesus. Be careful in conflict. Forgo rights. Endure. Trust the will and justice of God–the God who raises the dead.
Watching the crucifixion from a distance, the only active things I see from Jesus are words of forgiveness and words of hope spoken to undeserving people. How often do I assume an assertive, maybe aggressive, posture in conflict? I need to exchange it for words of grace and hope passionately spoken. Lord, help me, help us all.