With his emphasis on Jesus’ innocence and virtuosity on the cross, Luke’s crucifixion scene is difficult to read. Jesus prays for his tormentors, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” The criminal hanging next to Jesus declaratively points to the Messiah’s innocence: “This man has done nothing wrong.” In verse 47, even the centurion on duty at the crucifixion declares, “Certainly this man was innocent.” Luke makes his point clear: crucifying Jesus is a betrayal of the highest order — a betrayal of God and of all that is humane. I’ve been pondering the close association of “human” and “humane.” How often the meanings of these two words seem at odds with each other — that to be human is far from being humane, far from treating others with benevolence, compassion and care. As I write this lectionary reflection, the violent attack on Paul Pelosi by a politically-motivated intruder is breaking news. Threats of violence against our political leaders and even our nonpartisan, volunteer poll workers are the new norm. The New York Times reviewed more than 75 indictments of people charged with threatening lawmakers since 2016. The review highlighted a sickening trend: more and more Americans have taken ideological disagreements to a new level, threatening violence against members of Congress. “The threats have come in almost every conceivable combination: Republicans threatening Democrats, Democrats threatening Republicans, Republicans threatening Republicans” (“One Menacing Call After Another: Threats Against Lawmakers Surge”). No matter your party affiliation or political inclination, no matter whether it is Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, Mitch McConnell or Donald Trump, this spike in violence and violent rhetoric is beyond disturbing — it is inhumane. You can find the rest of the commentary on our website. | 
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