Peace Is Our Future

Christians have long argued about whether a Christian should bear arms. Some Christians believe it is permissible to bear arms in defense of country and family, as long as it is a “just” war. Martin Luther agreed with that in his writings. Some Christians focus on Jesus’ teaching that we are to love our enemies, offering the other cheek to the one who strikes us. From that they believe that we must be people of peace, no matter what the cost.

Whatever we conclude, Isaiah’s vision shows us God’s ultimate plan of peace and redemption. One day, in God’s good time, violence will end. Instead of fighting, we’ll ask God to settle things. Then nuclear and biological weapons will be utterly destroyed; Warships and tanks will be repurposed, and we will learn war no more.

I can barely wait for that day!

Dear God, as we wait for your vision to break into our world, help us to be peacemakers, working to end violence in our families and communities. Help us to be your agents of reconciliation. In Jesus' name. Amen. — AK

Contributed by Peace Is Our Future

Christians have long argued about whether a Christian should bear arms. Some Christians believe it is permissible to bear arms in defense of country and family, as long as it is a "just" war. Martin Luther agreed with that in his writings. Some Christians focus on Jesus' teaching that we are to love our enemies, offering the other cheek to the one who strikes us. From that they believe that we must be people of peace, no matter what the cost. Whatever we conclude, Isaiah's vision shows us God's ultimate plan of peace and redemption. One day, in God's good time, violence will end. Instead of fighting, we'll ask God to settle things. Then nuclear and biological weapons will be utterly destroyed; Warships and tanks will be repurposed, and we will learn war no more. I can barely wait for that day!
Eternity for Today