I was a teenager during the 60s and was caught up in the Peace Movement of those days. The country was split over our involvement in the Vietnam War. People displayed the peace symbol on clothing, bumper stickers, and tattoos. Yet protests and demonstrations often turned violent. The cry for peace was drowned out by division and violence.
If we are to advocate for peace, it must begin with inner peace within individuals. How can we find a broad peace when we argue with neighbors, retail workers, fellow drivers on the highway, and authorities? First, let us examine ourselves and see if we consistently contribute to peace wherever we go. Or do our attitudes and actions promote discord and chaos.
Jesus said, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand.” Thus, He said that division, within any group even a small group like family, will inevitably lead to destruction. Individuals must find inner peace so that they can contribute to the broader peace of the group.
But inner peace is hard to come by. Our selfish desires get in the way. Jesus promised, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” Inner peace begins with the surrender of ourselves to God. He transforms us into instruments of peace by giving us His supernatural peace. Let’s begin a new peace movement today by surrendering to God’s peace.
Reluctant Retiree 