The Holocaust is a very important event in history that should be remembered. It is emphasized in history through our education, but to see it remembered outside of school through a march is quite beautiful. What makes this march special, in my opinion, is how it is done. There are many political marches and there are many emotions and beliefs behind the people who come to support them, but God is the unifying factor of this march. They remembered the tragic events. They called out the numbers of lost lives (both Jews and others who fit in the margin of judgement and hostility from the Germans/ Nazis). They told their stories. They honored others. And the most impactful moment was forgiveness. They did not remember to hate, but to speak up for righteousness and healing. They gathered peacefully and worshipped the Lord through dance and song at the end, but more importantly, by how they focused in on the things God can do through brokenness. One lady in particular towards the end, after the march, had a tremendous impact on this theme of remembrance and forgiveness. Her name is Ruth Steinfield. Ruth is a survivor of the Holocaust. She lost her family because of the anti-semitism of the Germans. She went back to the home that was taken from her and faced the woman who lived in her childhood home. Though there was resentment and bitterness towards the Germans, she found herself there, hugging the woman, and with tears in her eyes. Shocked at her own words, though they were heartfelt, she said that she loves that woman. Ruth attributes this moment of remembrance, forgiveness, and embrace to the Lord; Knowing that it is God alone who can change someone’s heart to truly love their enemies. She does not dismiss the past and say that everything is okay, but she forgives. Through that she was able to feel like a child of God. She was able to walk in her identity as not just anyone’s child, but the Lord himself.
Being able to watch this march allowed me to see the heart of those behind it. The holocaust was an event that furthered my connection with the Jews as I knew who God calls them. Now, after seeing the march I think that they set the example of how we can remember, love, support, correct, embrace, and forgive. It is more than just a march. The march is a vessel of worship. It is a way to physically and verbally say, “I am here to remember he holocaust, support the survivors, forgive enemies, love all, and march for justice.” As I prepare for this trip to Israel, I will have this march in mind to do as was just said in the previous statement. Not only will I be able to have a better mindset, but I can also speak up for justice in anyway I can, including participating in the march.
