It seems to this pastor that PEACE in some form is on our minds and haunting us each day. Regardless of political perspective we long for the end of the devaluation of human life. The nightly video of suffering numbs us to the point of disbelief. We seem frozen as to a way to respond.
The Old Testament has no lack of conflict and violence. Peace seems to come only when the people begin to obey God. Yet, it has become obvious in our recent history that national conflict can not be attributed to any act of the Almighty!
There is that hymn that has the words, “let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.” Regardless of how minor a response this seems to be, it is the basis of our faith. Jesus calls us to love each other. In acting out this command there are no exceptions or extenuating circumstances! PEACE is not the absence of war, but the commitment to love even the unlovely.
~ Rev. Dr. Fred Leasure, Parish Associate