Greetings!
Amidst conflict and war in our world today, we need to revisit the Biblical teachings of peace which is anchored on justice.
First, the foundation of justice is God.
Isaiah 30:18 says, “Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!”
This verse emphasizes that God is the ultimate source of justice. His desire to be gracious and compassionate is rooted in his perfect sense of justice.
As believers and followers of Jesus, we are called to align our actions with God’s justice. This means treating others fairly, seeking righteousness, and advocating for justice in our communities. By doing so, we sow the roots of peace.
Second, pursue peace through righteousness.
Psalm 85:10 says, “Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other.”
This verse beautifully illustrates the connection between righteousness and peace. True peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of righteousness and faithfulness. In other words, there can never be true peace without justice.
We should actively pursue righteousness in our lives, striving for honesty, integrity, and moral uprightness, which will lead to a more peaceful existence.
Third, remember the call to be a peacemaker.
Jesus said in Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
The words of Jesus in this verse highlight the importance of actively working towards peace. As followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers, and not just peacekeepers. This means addressing injustice, promoting reconciliation, and standing up for those who are oppressed. By doing so, we reflect God’s character and fulfill our role as children of God.
Peace anchored on justice is a biblical concept that emphasizes the divine foundation of justice, the pursuit of peace through righteousness, and the call to be peacemakers in our world today. By understanding and applying these principles, we can contribute to a more just and peaceful society, reflecting the character of our just and compassionate God.
May God bless us all!
Sincerely,
Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
Director, Office of Communications