What's Behind the Ear?

Is this just a neat vignette? Or is it crucially formational for us?

Much has been made about what happened to Malchus’ ear. And what happened surrounding its severance is worthy of it.

In Luke’s telling of the story, Jesus actually heals the servant’s ear, making it the last miracle Jesus performed for someone. And when we remember that Jesus doesn’t heal for the spectacle, but rather for restoration — putting something back the way it should be — it speaks to what Peter shouldn’t have done.

Here in John, there is no ear reattachment.

But Jesus sure gives it to Peter.

Put your sword away!

Some could say that Jesus only saw it as distraction from what he was to be doing (headed to the cross). But Jesus also called all his disciples to a cross.

His imperative here is for all. Those who choose to follow Jesus should put their swords away.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean that Christians should spend a significant amount of effort calling other human institutions —namely, governments— to put down their swords.

Jesus didn’t.

Does that feel like a weak distinction?

A lot of the path to the cross seems weak. But it must be considered as foundational to the Church’s own path.

John 18:10-14

Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.) Jesus told Peter, “Put your sword away! Am I not to drink the cup the Father has given me?” Then the company of soldiers, the commander, and the guards from the Jewish leaders took Jesus into custody. They bound him and led him first to Annas. He was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year. (Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jewish leaders that it was better for one person to die for the people.)

Psalm 46:1-3, 6-11

God is our refuge and strength, a help always near in times of great trouble. That’s why we won’t be afraid when the world falls apart…

Nations roar; kingdoms crumble. God utters his voice; the earth melts.

The Lord of heavenly forces is with us! The God of Jacob is our place of safety.

Come, see the Lord’s deeds…

He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns shields with fire.

“That’s enough! Now know that I am God!”

Prayer¹

God,
Early in the morning I cry to you. Help me to pray and to concentrate my thoughts on you: I cannot do this alone.

In me there is darkness, but with you there is light. I am lonely, but you do not leave me. I am restless, but with you there is peace. In me there is bitterness, but with you patience; I do not understand your ways, but you know the way for me.

Restore me to liberty, and enable me to live now that I may answer before you and before people. Lord, whatever this day may bring, your name be praised.

By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.

1. Adapted from Dietrich Bonhoeffer