Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Peace in the midst of Violence
Romans 12:14-21
 

George Abraham
Long Island MTC, NY

21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

News of violence and radical movements has filled the media these days. Regardless of where we are, we are in a constant state of alert, triggered from fear. It is quite common to see and hear people treat each other as if they are the enemy when it seems one's way of life is threatened. Such is the behavior we see all around world. The answer to any injustice has been violence and it triggers a domino effect of violence causing such harm to humanity than ever can be imagined. As a result hatred grew between religious groups, countries, people of different colors and race.

As Christians living in midst of this turmoil, we should be mindful of who we are and what is our purpose in this world. As it says in Mathew 5:9, Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. How can we as Christians be the peacemakers, be the example of Christ? First we need to understand revenge is not our responsibility as it is said in Rom 12:19. What is our responsibility? Love, our responsibility is to love every one as Jesus Himself showed us through His life. He urges us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us, that we may be children of our Father in heaven.
It is easier said than done in our daily lives. Let’s focus on our own life and let’s reflect a moment to see, are we the peacemakers? Do we love and pray for our enemies? When was the last time we prayed for our enemies? Let us begin with transforming ourselves, show the love and care for others regardless what they have done to us. Let us strive to be the example to others through our actions. Through the midst of all injustice let’s find peace in God that He is the power that cares for us and He sees everything that happens to us. Let us overcome the evil around us with the goodness that our Lord and Savior has taught us. May God bless us all.

PRAYER

Father, we humbly submit ourselves unto Thy hands, please cleanse us and forgive our shortcomings. Strengthen us to grow stronger in You and help us to fight the evil around us with love and goodness You have instilled in us. Let the Holy Spirit guide us through our difficult time. In Jesus precious name we pray, Amen.     

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
"And in His will is our peace." —Dante, Paradiso, Canto III, line 85. 

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