Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Carrying the Cross Amidst Bombs

I'm wrapping up a three week series with our church talking about the subject of peace. As I was finishing things this afternoon I moved from my work space into the living room to turn on CNN. What I saw was the news reports of terrorist attacks in India...ongoing...with many dead. And here I am preaching on peace.
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Peace is a core conviction I hold as a Christian...it's something I believe Christ-followers should represent. However, it is incredibly hard to think of how this violence can end without retaliation. I must admit, when I encounter issues of violence my first inclination is toward violence...to combat evil with evil, but this is not the theme of the gospel.
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I am realistic in believing there will always be wars and rumors of wars until the return of Christ. I am hopeful, however, that Christians can stand for peace, for well-being and mercy toward both the oppressor and the oppressed. It is difficult to imagine freeing the oppressed in a non-violent, non-military fashion, but this is our story in Christ. This is how Jesus brought freedom to the oppressed. This is how Jesus freed the oppressor. He did it by setting us free from our sinful inclinations toward evil and the abuse of power. He showed us the way through submission and service.
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I must admit, I feel a little awkward preparing to share something that seems so unrealistic in today's culture. However, I feel it must be said...it must be talked about. So in the midst of a violent world we proclaim love for our enemies and prayer for those who persecute us.
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May your Kingdom come, and your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.