There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love I John 4:18
Today, April 24th marks a sad and devastating anniversary. It was on this date in 1915 that the genocide on the Armenian people was begun by the crumbling Ottoman Empire. World War I was raging, and the Ottoman Empire was aligned with Germany, Austria-Hungary and Bulgaria as part of the Central Powers. They were opposed principally by France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Russia, and later the United States and much of the rest of the world (to a lesser extent).
There were many explanations of the Armenian genocide, mainly the fear of impending doom by the leaders of the Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman leaders feared that the mostly Christian Armenians would overtake the weakened Ottoman Empire, especially if the Empire was on the losing side in the World War.
Such general fear is the basis of so many irrational and inhumane acts that we witness. The Armenian genocide is recognized as perhaps the first modern genocide. Unfortunately, several more have followed in the 20th and 21st century. We like to think that as we evolve in our humanity and reasoning, and we make progress toward making life better for people, that such behavior would diminish. However, there remains this basic emotion of fear that can be weaponized in times of uncertainty.
I write this because we need to remember that the human race is capable of devouring itself. I also write this in order to maintain the witness that the devastation of the Armenian people should not be relegated to the dusty back pages of history. This cautionary tale reminds us that we are capable of incredible damage to one another.
Jesus came to earth as the savior of the people he loved- his entire creation. His message holds strong more than ever today- we must love one another, or we will fall prey to those who preach hate.
Prayer: Lord, remind us daily of your love for all people, Amen
Reflections of a Counselor 