Scripture: Proverbs 12:20
Deceit is in the mind of those who plan evil, but those who counsel peace have joy.
Thought for the Day: I love how the Proverbs offer what appears to be a simple rule like: A brings about B, but C will bring about D. Most of us want D, so we thus avoid A. What I find interesting is these often straightforward axioms offer entry points for deeper reflection. In the above Proverb, I was struck by the word ‘counsel’, and how we are to counsel peace. Does this mean we sit down and ask peace about its childhood, encouraging its sense of self-worth? I don’t believe that was the intention. The word counsel, in the original Hebrew, can also be translated as conspire. Now the word conspire is often understood as being unlawful or at least defiant and unruly, and if you think about it, doesn’t the act of peacemaking assume a defiance to the ways of war and a little grace-filled unruliness? Too often people of faith have been known as very prim and proper, never causing any trouble. I’m not suggesting that we do anything outside of the model of Jesus, but if you remember, he got himself arrested. Maybe when it comes to peacemaking, we should be a little more rowdy, but in a very peaceful way. Today is International Peace day! Let’s make a witness for peace.
Prayer: O Prince of Peace, inspire me to work for peace from my doorstep to the ends of the earth. Amen.
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