Every newscast reminds us of the often horrific events
happening around the world, in a bordering state, and down the street. Conflict
makes for a great story with its victims, violence, and volume. Whether the
battle happens in a nation halfway around the world with a scope so big we
cannot imagine or in a living room halfway down the block with friends so close
we do not imagine, conflict moves us because of its intensely human aspect.
Lord, we know you did not make us for conflict, but for
communion with you and all mankind. When we brought conflict into the world,
you responded with a guide. You told us exactly how to connect with you and
with others through the law. We could not even agree on the rules you gave us,
so Jesus simplified it to two imperative sentences: 1) Love God. 2) Love your
neighbor.
We know how to avoid conflict and yet the headlines are
filled with it. There is a difference between knowing and doing. Lord, we ask
you to give us the courage to resist conflict, and even more, wisdom and peace
to navigate the conflicts that do come our way – globally or relationally. And
when the conflicts do come, we also ask for the grace to reflect our connection
with you because you led by example in the time you walked among us.
We thank you for showing us it can be done.
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