Choosing Peace as the First Option
Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers, quietly building new structures…..”
John F. Kennedy
When someone speaks with a prophetic voice, their politics and personal flaws are not as important as the message given.
JFK had a prophetic voice that encouraged a nation and world to strive for better life for all.
I grew up during the 1960’s. I remember the fear that gripped us. The fear of nuclear attack, so we hid under desks during drills. The fear of Russian conquest when Kennedy was shot. The fear of the unknown as MLK preached a message of peace and justice for all people as equal; and the fear of total destruction when he was killed and riots consumed cities.
As I waited for an announcement from Kentucky, I felt the same fear in a different, more mature way. But it is still fear. Fear of revenge instead of justice; fear of hate overcoming human love and compassion; fear that we may not survive this moment.
God promises us His peace if we trust. But trust also requires the constant and regular effort that JFK referred to: this day, week, month and on.
Today please join me in praying God’s peace through His Spirit of understanding and conversation on our land.
Pastor Lou Strugala
