What Would Jesus Do?

Every weekday morning, a crossing guard stands on a corner near the school where I work.  From my classroom window, I watch her giving the kids hugs, high-fives, and little notes of encouragement. Smile at someone you don’t know today. Give somebody a compliment. When I went out to meet her, I noticed she was wearing a WWJD bracelet.

A few months ago, I met a woman at the airport crocheting stuffed animals as she awaited departure. When I commented on her creations, she told me the animals were for girls and boys entering migrant detention centers. She wanted the children to have something comforting to hold during the frightening ordeal. As her fingers worked, I saw her bracelet- WWJD.

I’ve been following a group of monks on their 2,300-mile pilgrimage for peace. Their trek from Texas to Washington D.C. took 108 days, each step promoting compassion and non-violence. Amidst the noise and heaviness washing over our country, these monks walked humbly, inviting citizens along the way to join them or listen to one of their daily peace talks. A reporter interviewed one of the people who had finished the last twenty miles with the monks. When asked why he chose to participate, he answered, “I think it’s what Jesus would do.”

Years ago, I owned a WWJD bracelet. Initially, it served as a tangible reminder, prompting me to consider what Jesus might do in a given situation. However, as time went on, it became another passing trend, and the bracelet made its way to the back of a drawer or the trash can.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about these good people I’ve encountered and have been wondering What Would Jesus Do?

When immigrant families are afraid to send their children to school, What Would Jesus Do?

When the wealthy can buy their way out of justice, What Would Jesus Do?

When people in power give society permission to hate, What Would Jesus Do?

None of us can say with certainty exactly what Jesus would do. However, we do know what he did when he walked this earth. He challenged social norms. He welcomed children, advocated for women, and touched lepers. He showed mercy to people who wronged him and compassion to the outcasts. He accepted Samaritans and told us to, “go and do likewise.”

The world seems especially chaotic and volatile right now. The headlines are over-run with news of division and hostility.  Yet, there in the midst, are displays of moral beauty.  People spreading words of encouragement, bringing comfort to frightened children, walking for peace. Small gestures of goodness. Moments when they answered the question. What Would Jesus Do?