Happy are those who strive for peace—they shall be called the sons of God Matthew 5:9
A time for peace, I swear it’s not too late… The Byrds (Turn, Turn, Turn)
Former president Donald Trump was attacked in an assassination attempt yesterday. This horrible attack is one in a series of past violent actions that have happened on American soil so often over the years. Indeed, many writers have said “This is not who America is!” The unfortunate truth is, this is indeed the sad legacy of a violent American culture.
Until we own the fact that gun violence and inflamed political rhetoric are a part of American culture, we cannot solve it. As with any significant problem, we cannot adequately address it until we fully own it.
After any assassination attempt, there are conspiracy narratives that arise to explain it. My hope is that people on social media will hold off on any conspiracy theories that can inflame already raw emotions. Can we decide to take an approach that fosters peace? Wild speculations do not lead to peaceful discourse.
Our pastor delivered a sermon today that calls us to be peacemakers. Peacemakers actively seek restoration and reconciliation when anger and violence seem to rule the day. In the words of the old song, Turn, Turn, Turn by the Byrds, “There is a time for peace, I swear it’s not too late.”
Prayer: Lord, let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me, Amen
Reflections of a Counselor 