11-03-20

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
November 3, 2020
Scripture: Matthew 5:9
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

Thought for the Day: Sunday afternoon our Elders had their monthly meeting, and during the closing time the question was asked, “Any last thoughts about the coming week?” One of our Elders, next year’s Vice Chair, Robert Neunkirch, made two suggestions. First, based upon our current study of the Sermon on the Mount, we need to remember how the peacemakers are described as blessed. Let’s make sure we are among the blessed. Second, during our Elder training last year we discussed how leaders are called to be the non-anxious presence in a time of upheaval. Robert is right, and I would extend the call to be peacemakers and the non-anxious presence to every follower of Jesus. We do not play into the nonsense or fan the flames of uncertainty. We speak the truth with grace. We take the time to listen to people’s concerns, for many are frightened. We pray enough so that we ourselves are centered and able to respond from a healthy mindset and not react from our own fears. We have responsibilities as citizens of this nation, and I hope you have voted or soon will vote, but you also have a responsibility to your faith. The love he showed us is a love we are called to live, and not just when things are simple and going well. In fact, our love in times of heighten concern can become some of the most important moments for Christ-like witness. Trust me when I say: The world is watching.

Prayer: Holy God, may I do more than yearn for peace. Yearning very rarely brought about anything that resembles your kingdom. Hard work is required, and it begins within my own heart and mind. Bring me your peace that passes all understanding, and then show me how to help make peace wherever I go. This I pray in the name of the one they called the Prince of Peace. Amen.

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