I pray for and seek a life of nonviolence. It is my prayer that, as God gives peace through Christ, this peace will be translated into action. In the sixth century, when Europe was experiencing economic, communal, and social collapse, and marauding bands of destructive tribes wrought violence throughout the countryside, Benedict of Nursia created communities of peace, justice and safety.
I am truly brokenhearted by those who seek to engage in violence. Jesus says to love your enemies and calls us to pray for those who persecute. Jesus says to turn the other cheek and, as he was being tortured, He prayed, “Father, forgive them.”
Violence only breeds more violence. There is an old song, that I really like, which says, “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.” In reality, peace begins in the love of Christ, but, as Christ dwells within, one is transformed to a new way of life. It just does not make sense to see a bumper sticker asking, “Who would Jesus shoot?”. The new life in Christ is a life committed to peace.
My commitment, by the power of the Holy Spirit, is:
1 To live in peace and love with those around me.
2 To respond to violent language and behavior with prayer and love.
3 To make my home a place of safety and security.
4 To pray daily for nonviolence.
5 To seek and support communities of peace and justice.
Will you join me?
