There is a child's game that has been played around the world for over 2,000 years. A player is blindfolded, spun around, and others touch or call out while the blinded person tries to grab or identify the taunter. (In earlier time the "touching" could be violent.) If caught, a person has to take the "blind man's" place. Many of us knew this child's game as "blind man's bluff."
Jesus had been hailed as a prophet, and the men holding him in the courtyard were having a great time with this. Could this "great prophet" do what even a child could do? "Here, let me hit you a good one and see if you can guess who it is." He was at their mercy, and they knew it.
There is irony here. Jesus had correctly prophesied the betrayal of Jesus, the flight of his disciples, and the denials of Peter. Four chapters earlier in Luke, he had prophesied that he would be "mocked and insulted." The guards, ridiculing him as a prophet, are now fulfilling this prophecy.
Luke presents Jesus as a model for all Christians. Through it all, Jesus says not a word in retaliation.
Perhaps some of you Lenten "fasting" could be from the snide remarks you sling now and then.
On this, the 21st day of Lent 2015, may we use our tongues to lift up, not tear down, for good, not for evil.
- Little Black Book, Diocese of Saginaw