The Missing Peace

Monday, December 19, 2011 Posted by Joline

As a child, I recall singing a song in our school choir that started with the lyrics, "Let there be peace on Earth, and let it begin with me."

Let it begin with me. Yikes. Really?

Here is the good news.

Jesus is the Prince of Peace. All the time. It doesn't begin with ME, but, rather, with Him. And it continues with Him. He is my model.

So, what's missing?

In my "world", or sphere of influence, do I reveal Peace through the way I choose to treat those with whom I come into daily contact?

Do I reveal Peace by committing to attempt reconciliation with those whom I have conflict?

Peace can be tough. It doesn't mean the avoidance/absence of conflict, or ignoring the need to speak truth. Peace doesn't run from loving confrontation. Peace isn't born out of a denial of the tough junk. It's often a result of tackling the junk.

Thankfully, God is present through it all. He is our Peace. He gives us Peace - and the ability to give Peace to others.

At times, it feels as if Peace is missing our world. I have a hunch that He is NOT the missing piece.

Our turn.

James 3:18 (The Message (MSG))

^17-18Real wisdom, God's wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor.