Let There Be Peace

06Sep
Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides forever.

As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people, from this time on and forevermore.


For the scepter of wickedness shall not rest on the land allotted to the righteous, so that the righteous might not stretch out their hands to do wrong.

Do good, O Lord, to those who are good, and to those who are upright in their hearts.


But those who turn aside to their own crooked ways the Lord will lead away with evildoers. Peace be upon Israel!

-Psalm 125



When words fail, the Psalms avail. 


I am left all but speechless each day this last year after learning of the latest atrocities in what is called the Holy Land. In a seemingly endless war that has now taken more lives than can be counted it is no wonder that thousands take to the streets in protest. As students return to college we can expect more protests and pray for civil authorities to exercise good judgment. The need to protest is real and worthy of respect. 


I have heard many words of anger from both my Jewish and Muslim friends, several of whom have family still living in war-torn areas of Israel and Gaza. As for me, I have no words.  


"The expression that there is nothing to express, nothing with which to express, nothing from which to express, no power to express, no desire to express, together with the obligation to express." (Samuel Beckett, "Three Dialogues")


I take solace in praying for peace, while listening to my friends in silence.Strangely enough, they often seem to find my silent witness somewhat pacifying.


Pax.


Musical Reflection - For What it's Worth - Buffalo Springfield



Lord Jesus Christ,

who are called the Prince of Peace,

who are yourself our peace and reconciliation,

who so often said,

“Peace to you,”

grant us peace.

Make all men and women witnesses of truth,

justice, and brotherly love.

Banish from their hearts whatever might endanger peace.

Enlighten our rulers that they may guarantee

and defend the great gift of peace.

May all peoples of the earth become as brothers and sisters.

May longed-for peace blossom forth

and reign always over us all.


Pope John XXIII

Peace

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