Peace.

Upon catching sight of God everyone automatically assumes that they win.

But the problem with winning is that someone has to lose.

"'Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.'"  Matthew 25:40 (NRSV)

"'Blessed are the peace makers, for they will be called children of God.'"  Matthew 5:9 (NRSV)

God does not win one against another, God makes peace between us.

God is not the enemy even of His own enemies.

So do not try to win but try to make peace with your enemies.

"The Lord.....is patient with you, not wanting any to perish.'"  2 Peter 3:9 (NRSV)

To God there are no sides.

The first step is forgiveness for whatever they may have done to you or your loved ones.

The object is peaceful co-existence without interference or violence.

God will let even Satanists live.  He will not punish them or force them to conform.  He will try and make peace with them.

This is wisdom.

Do not take up arms.

Pray for peace.

Peace on earth and goodwill to all.

Empower the powerless.

Respect dissenters.

Include everyone.


(Scripture quotations (marked NRSV) are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission.  All rights reserved.)

Photo Credit: lkonstanski Flickr via Compfight cc