What Do We Do Now?

In this world of confusion, everyone is looking for an end to something they believe is evil. Whether it’s an illness, violence, personal perceptions of others, a political party’s power, a bad TV show, whatever; we all want goodness and peace to reign over all the earth. But, who’s “goodness and peace?” We’ve all watched violence in our streets in the past as some believe that is a way to peace. We (hopefully) voted to bring into or, keep in power (in the US) a party of peace. We’ve worn masks and stayed home (what feels like forever) to help squash an illness and bring many health and peace. Some have changed their language when speaking to help perceptions and calm inner turmoil others may be dealing with, to bring a feeling of calm. But, what rule? What way? What method or command is the best for all that will bring the ultimate peace for all? Now that another new year has begun, what do we do now?

In the Bible, Jesus was being tested (kind of like the times we are in) by the people who taught and interpreted the law (kind of like our lawyers and government leaders) - this is found in Matthew 22, and Mark 12. They were asking Him, “What is the greatest commandment?” They were saying what is the one thing we need to focus on to bring peace? There were many laws in that day, like today, and all our laws and commandments are designed to “keep the peace.” The leaders of the time in this part of scripture were asking Him, “What do we do?” Jesus’ answer was this, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it, Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and all the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (NIV version) It sounds simple. (God usually makes it like that for us - when we try to know Him.)

Jesus basically said, Love God, love people. Everything else will fall into place if we do this. So, when (and if) you watch the news or, when someone is tailgating a bit to close, or when you’re confronted with someone you disagree with on a topic, Love God, love people. Does that mean you need to approve of other’s behavior choices? No, just be kind. I like to be quiet and sometimes even kindly, silently leave a situation or discussion where I disagree with someone. That’s not easy for us as we all want to be heard. Hence social media’s prominence. Though, as my wife so wonderfully said before, “You can never argue (or post) anyone into changing what they believe, to bring peace.” But, isn’t that what many of us do today? What if we just loved God, and loved people? Everything just might fall into place. And, when we’re asked how or why we do this, by others around us; we quietly can tell them what and Whom we believe in, and when they do; that will bring them contentment and peace.