By Linda Tancs
Aikido is a form of martial arts, the goal of which is to diffuse the aggressive energy of your opponent to bring a peaceful resolution to conflict. It’s fair to say that Jesus was a master of aikido, spiritually speaking. Take the Sermon on the Plain as recounted in Luke’s gospel, for instance (Luke 6:27-36). In that discourse, Jesus outlines his strategy of nonviolence and love of the enemy. For example, when someone insults you or conspires against you, don’t remit evil for evil. When you love people in response to their hatred, you confuse and confound them, taking away the very energy that feeds their hatred. Then you’re a master of aikido.
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