Psalm 34

Fri, Dec 11 – DAY 13

Avoiding conflict does not bring peace. Instead it suppresses issues that require attention and change. Peace, rather than sidestepping controversy, looks into the eyes of what must be faced. Requires awareness and willingness to learn. Welcomes differences as a place of growth and change. Names forgotten or hidden issues, raises up unreported or silenced stories, forms partnerships and coalitions that empower representatives from affected populations. Involves more listening, less telling. Values compassionate, direct, holistic paths. Engages ourselves and others in transformative actions and choices. Takes place with every simple interaction in which we choose a peaceful approach: what we buy, what we read, where we travel, with whom we socialize, and so many other deeds. — Rev Gail

Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. — Psalm 34:14

It isn’t enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it. And it isn’t enough to believe in it. One must work at it.
— Eleanor Roosevelt

Peace is not absence of conflict, it is the ability to handle conflict by peaceful means. —Ronald Reagan

Conflicts can’t be avoided. But we can learn to navigate them more confidently and use the tension as an opportunity to express our views honestly and peacefully … When you have incorrect perceptions of others, it’s easier to fear, even hate them. Get to know the genuine in others. Find shared experiences, hopes, and beliefs. Connect on that holy ground, and peace will flow out from those moments. — Susan Skog