Pursuing peace

Peace.
People protest for it. It has it’s own symbol. There are songs written about it.
But why is peace so elusive? Why has generation after generation been seeking peace, but war and violence ruled the day?
I believe that peace cannot be forced. It cannot be legislated. There is no treaty that guarantees peace.
I believe that true peace only comes when we are transformed by the world to God’s way of looking at things. Consider what Paul writes…
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:9-21)
Real peace comes from an army of Christ-followers seeking to live the kind of lives that live at peace with others. When we show true love, compassion, and kindness to those we encounter, we can change the world. In the words of Jesus, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9)

shine!
Jason