Be a Peace-Maker
Jesus demonstrated a commitment to nonviolence that transcended the challenges of his time. He actively confronted injustice with courage and creativity, not by avoiding conflict but by engaging it head-on without resorting to violence. Jesus is the revelation and embodiment of our Nonviolent God, whose sun shines on the good and the evil alike. His actions, such as intervening to save the woman accused of adultery and urging Peter to put down his sword, were powerful examples of how love in action can dismantle systems of violence and oppression.
Nonviolence is not ineffective, passive, weak, utopian, naïve, unpatriotic, marginal, simplistic, or impractical, but it recognizes evil in the world and responds to it with good. In today's world, following Jesus' example of nonviolence means actively working to confront and transform systems of injustice. Jesus is a maker of peace, an agent of restorative justice, and a proponent of what we might call “responsibility to protect nonviolently.” It requires us to recognize the humanity in our adversaries, respond to evil with good, and seek peaceful, just, and sustainable alternatives in the face of conflict. Nonviolence is actively confronting violence without violence; creatively engaging conflict; and nurturing just, peaceful, and sustainable alternatives.
As you reflect on Jesus' life, ask yourself: How can you embody this nonviolent love in your own actions? What does it look like for you to be a peace-maker today? Let nonviolence take root in your heart and guide your every action.