Here is a link to a lecture by Stanley Hauerwas on the devastating effects of war. It is given from a perspective of the cross of Christ and the liberation Christ's sacrifice made possible for a world set on a path of war and killing.
This was a sober listen. But as difficult as it might be, it seems it is a message that the Church in America needs to hear. Even if it doesn't change anybody's stance on war or the possible necessity of war at this time, maybe it will plant an idea of a better way in our hearts. Maybe it will plant a dream in our hearts and minds to where we understand that war is too costly for all of us.
Maybe the reality is that even for the victors in war, the cost is even higher?
Jesus set out a radically different way for his disciples. I think he was showing those who would follow that it is through their refusal to use violence that they would be freed from the cycle of violence that is human history. Not that we might not suffer violence, but that violence will not control us and be our tyrant. And in turn, the community of believers (the Church) would not contribute anymore to the ugly violent history of man's sad attempt of living outside of relationship with God.
Maybe it is our participation in this, choosing to suffer instead of causing others to suffer, that helps moves our violent world one step closer to the day the Prophets of old spoke of. The day when nations will not make war against other nations.
Here is a quote from Stanley:
"The work of Jesus was not a new set of ideals or principles for reforming or even revolutionizing society, but the establishment of a new community, a people that embodied forgiveness, sharing and self-sacrificing love in its rituals and discipline. In that sense, the visible church is not to be the bearer of Christ's message, but to be the message."
http://www.gfmuiuc.net/hauerwas4-6-06.mp3
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