Shalom--Peace

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways. The Lord be with you all.

2 Thessalonians 3:16 RSV

I have noticed that often the first thing attacked is peace. (I suppose in earthly war, the sentinel is likely to be the first to be put out of action if possible, and Peace is our sentinel.) When our peace is shattered, vital prayer ceases, and the love which was to burn and not be put out—the love that finds sheer joy in sacrifice—fails utterly. So let us guard our peace. In disturbed times we can learn that circumstances have no power whatever over peace: "When He giveth quietness, who then [what then] can make trouble?" Job 34:29 The only thing that has power to do that is sin. "Vouch safe, O Lord, to keep us this day without sin."

Amy Carmichael, "Edges of His Ways"

October 26

To stress in times of strife and conflict is to sin because it denies the sovereignty of God in circumstances and relationships.

Carol Wojehoits of Poland (aka Pope John Paul II)