In the absence of kindness and consideration, we have become less civil and more mean-spirited with one another.
Lord have mercy.
In the presence of fears and hurts, we have become destructive and dangerous.
Christ have mercy.
For every ungentle personal act, our leaders push policies of anger or invest in division so that our governments, at a higher level, feed our individual hostility.
Lord have mercy.
How do we stop this?
Let us begin by reconsidering all the ways we are called to be peaceful people. In this season when we prepare ourselves to welcome the Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Prince of Peace, perhaps we can renew our commitment to living in love and walking in light. Let us rediscover our ability to be merciful toward one another, to be patient, thoughtful, and compassionate. Let us act from a place of generosity and joy.
Let us reclaim peace.
Thank you, Aleta. This word is much needed in our country, in our world, and in our hearts, especially now.