Right at the heart of the ancient city of Samarkand in modern-day Uzbekistan sits a masterpiece of Timurid architecture, Tamerlane’s Tomb. The Gur-e-Amir (“Tomb of the Commander”), is one of the most iconic and historically significant monuments in Central Asia. Tamerlane was a military genius of extraordinary cruelty in the 14th century whose empire stretched across the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of India. His tomb bears the inscription, ‘When I Rise From The Dead, The whole World Shall Tremble.’
In June 1942, Soviet anthropologists opened his tomb on the orders of Joseph Stalin and began exhuming his remains. They soon discovered an additional inscription inside his casket that states, ‘Whoever Disturbs My Tomb Will Unleash an Invader More Terrible Than I. ‘The following morning Adolf Hitler of Nazi Germany invaded the Soviet Union even though they had signed a treaty known as the Nazi-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact with Stalin. A recurring theme emerges throughout history: empires, rulers, and influential figures relentlessly pursue power.
This ceaseless struggle for dominance and control has shaped civilizations, dictated the rise and fall of nations, and left a profound imprint on humanity. The jockeying for authority, power, and supremacy has always existed in human experience. On the other hand, some individuals are motivated or even obsessed with seeking out power in various ways, not necessarily to exercise control and dominance over others but to protect themselves from the people who wield power over others. There appears to be a stark contrast between those who pursue power for the purpose of control and those who seek it as a defense against external threats. Yet, beneath this difference lies a shared foundational belief: both groups operate under the assumption that power is essential and central to existence. They are united by a narrative that positions power at the heart of existence, even if this connection is more nuanced for the latter group, who may prioritize protection over domination.
When Christ entered the stage of this universe, He completely transformed the understanding of power. Unlike conventional views that tied power to dominance, control, or violence, Christ’s power was revolutionary because it was rooted in love and self-sacrifice. In a world where leaders were esteemed for their ability to conquer and impose authority, Christ’s approach was profoundly different, elevating love as the central force of existence. His ultimate demonstration of power was His crucifixion,a voluntary act of self-sacrifice that revealed the depth of His love for humanity and His commitment to redemption.
The Pharisees and many others anticipated a Messiah who would overthrow Roman rule through displays of authority and military might. They expected liberation through conventional power,one of physical dominance over their oppressors. Instead, Christ’s method challenged these expectations entirely. His strength was not in defeating the Romans with armies but in offering His life. Christ redefined power as the ability to love unconditionally, to serve, and to sacrifice for the good of others. This was not a weakness but a radical strength that turned the world’s understanding of authority on its head. It’s by selflessly going low that we go high. Power derived from exerting control over others is inherently fragile and fleeting. Authentic power and agency stem not from force but from alignment with moral or spiritual principles, which provide a foundation of inner strength and stability. This kind of power transcends conflict, as it is not something that can be seized or contested. Instead, it arises from conviction, shared values, and mutual respect. By fostering harmony and a collective sense of purpose, this form of power unites individuals and societies, promoting well-being on both personal and communal levels.
Love embodies this transcendent power. It is a force that eradicates fear, replacing it with trust, warmth, and a sense of community. Benevolence, expressed through love, becomes a disarming force against those who seek power as a shield against malevolence. Unlike control or self-protective measures, which often escalate fear and conflict, love fosters connection and cooperation. It allows individuals to move beyond fear, replacing resentment, fear, and hostility with understanding and compassion.
Power rooted in love is a moral authority that transforms individuals, relationships, and communities. May selfless love be your power, guiding your thoughts, actions, and words and illuminating your path to eternity.
LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON