We’ve been following the news of yet another war, this time between Russia and Ukraine. Our listeners all over the world, especially in the Middle East, are no strangers to war. During the last decade alone, there were at least a dozen wars in the region: some extremely devastating, like in Iraq, Syria, Libya, and Yemen; some more like unrests, like in Tunisia, Egypt, Sudan, and Lebanon. Not to mention the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that has been going on for 75 years with no resolution in sight.
How do we achieve peace? Well, it depends on our definition of peace. President Ronald Reagan said, “Peace is not the absence of conflict; it is the ability to handle conflict by peaceful means.” As Christians, we should pray for peace, and do everything we can to bring peace around us. But one cannot give what one does not have. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)
We share with our listeners the unique message that Jesus is the source of inner peace, not the circumstances. Jesus said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) Personally, I don’t want to have trouble in this world. I always need to re-adjust my perspective. As Wayne W. Dyer said, “Peace is the result of retraining your mind to process life as it is, rather than as you think it should be.”
Regardless of the particulars of any conflict, as Christians, we should strive to avoid war and seek peace. I like what Benjamin Franklin said, “There never was a good war or a bad peace.” I do not like Hollywood movies that glamorize war. War is horrible! Just ask our veterans. Peace is getting ever more elusive to achieve, but it’s worth it. “Peace is such hard work. Harder than war. It takes way more effort to forgive than to kill.” ― Rae Carson.
Please continue to pray for peace and the safety of our people and listeners around the world.
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” (2 Thessalonians 3:16)
Categories: ARABIC
