“He grants peace within your borders.”  Psalm 147:14

“Christ is our peace.”  Ephesians 2:14

Ending combat doesn’t mean peace.  We fight amongst ourselves about method and outcome.  Many fret about those left behind in a land of historic oppression, while others are afraid of those we have brought within our borders.  I am not condoning or condemning – just pointing out the clamorous differences in reaction.  This is a time of devotion – a time to read verses from God’s word, to listen for God and to seek peaceful guidance in our daily lives. 

I came of age in the 60s-70s (a flower child, sort of) which was also a time of war and division within our nation.  I looked back for a quote I somewhat remembered by John Kennedy.  At a time of Cold War he said, “… Is not peace …  basically a matter of human rights – the right to live out our lives without fear of devastation – the right to breathe air as nature provided it – the right of future generations to a healthy existence?”  Not Scripture, but good points.  When war ends people will battle health issues and aging; homelessness, hunger and fair job opportunities; national debt and depletion of natural resources for our children and grandchildren.  There will still be violence in neighborhoods and fear of strangers.  

In all this mix of human error and anxiety, we need Christ … on airplanes and freeways; at school board meetings and family gatherings.  We need the Holy Spirit giving us courage and strength to do what we can to clean up our messes; to extend an open hand that welcomes and unifies.  

Prince of Peace, We pray for those who live where there is war and violence, and for those who go there in service, and for their families.  Bless us with the fruits of your Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), make us “instruments of your peace”.  Amen  

Verla Olson   

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