I think today is the only commemoration of a Native American on the Lutheran Calendar.  Seattle (for whom the city in Washington State is named) was Chief of the Suquamish Tribe and later of the Duwamish Confederacy. He was baptized as a Roman Catholic.

Despite the ill treatment of his people, Seattle was an advocate of peace between Native Americans and the white settlers. He refused to participate in the 1856 Battle of Seattle.

In a speech attributed to him, Seattle poignantly forecasted the fading of Indians. “It matters little where we pass the remnant of our days. They will not be many. The Indian’s night promises to be dark. Not a single star of hope hovers above his horizon. Sad-voiced winds moan in the distance. Grim fate seems to be on the Red Man’s trail, and wherever he will hear the approaching footsteps of his fell destroyer and prepare stolidly to meet his doom, as does the wounded doe that hears the approaching footsteps of the hunter.”

Seattle remarked: “Revenge by young men is considered gain, even at the cost of their own lives, but old men who stay at home in times of war, and mothers who have sons to lose, know better.” I wish everyone would learn from that wisdom. There is too much desire for getting even among people. I am troubled that even some who call themselves Christians talk about revenge and retribution. It just doesn’t fit with Jesus’ teaching to turn the other cheek. There’s a lot we could learn from Chief Seattle.

Read Luke 6:27-30 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne