There must be a better way ∙∙
You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. – John 8:32
Matthew 26:52 All those who take up the sword shall perish by the sword.
In 2020, a series of extraordinary events unfolded, including the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, unusual weather phenomena, worldwide social upheaval, and a widespread push towards rectifying historical injustices. Unfortunately, the calls for justice and freedom often led to violent confrontations instead of peaceful resolutions. Riots, looting, and the destruction of private property and historical landmarks were widespread, frequently occurring without any sense of personal restraint.
In light of these tumultuous events, a period of introspection is called for. Edmund Burke was a revered British statesman, parliamentary orator, and political philosopher whose influence spanned from 1765 to around 1795. He was a classic political thinker. His intellectual legacy, intricately interwoven with a profound comprehension of philosophy and its pragmatic implications on civic and societal realms, is more relevant than ever. Reflect on the profound insights he left behind.
“He that sets his house on fire because his fingers are frostbitten can never be a fit instructor in the method of providing our habitations with a cheerful and salutary warmth.”
“Men are qualified for civil liberty in exact proportion to their disposition to put moral chains upon their own appetites . . . in proportion as they are more disposed to listen to the counsels of the wise and good, in preference to the flattery of knaves. Society cannot exist, unless a controlling power upon will and appetite be placed somewhere, and the less of it there is within, the more there must be without. It is ordained in the eternal constitution of things, that men of intemperate minds cannot be free. Their passions forge their fetters.”
“Among a people generally corrupt, liberty cannot long exist.”
“It is a general popular error to imagine the loudest complainers for the public to be the most anxious for its welfare.”
“There is no safety for honest men except by believing all possible evil of evil men.”
“The people never give up their liberties but under some delusion.”
Edmund Burke’s words resonate through the annals of history, finding echoes in contemporary global affairs, notably within the American landscape of the 21st century. His sentiments were sparked by the turbulent events of the French Revolution, which took place from 1789 to 1799. He was particularly affected by the terrifying Reign of Terror, which occurred from September 5, 1793, to July 27, 1794. His thoughts reflect the ongoing fight for freedom and fairness. The French populace revolted against the exploitative and repressive values that had existed for centuries. The Revolutionary authorities, in their zeal, institutionalized a reign of terror. The French people destroyed the symbols of the monarchy and, ultimately, the monarchy itself. Those deemed guilty by the contemporary equivalent #MeToo movement of the day also lost their heads. This period, immortalized in historical records and artistic depictions, became known as “The Bloody Revolution.”
The aftermath brought forth the White Terror, a retaliatory wave of violence against supporters and participants of the Reign of Terror soon followed it. Violence begets violence.
Matthew 26:52 All those who take up the sword shall perish by the sword.
And so it was. All who took up the guillotine also perished by it.
There must be a better way.
REFLECT & PRAY
“Liberty does not exist in the absence of morality” (Edmund Burke).
Father, guide me and give me wisdom so that I may know when to make peace and when to make war.
INSIGHT
There are over 1100 prophecies in the Old Testament regarding the coming of the Messiah of Israel. Over 300 of them predict that He will come as the Prince of peace, die for the iniquity of people, offering redemption to all who receive it. The Messiah would be a Suffering Servant. Miracles, teaching, and peaceful confrontation would characterize His First Coming. He would frequently turn the other cheek. He did not come to reign but rather to die for the sins of the world and provide salvation.
On the other hand, over 800 prophecies describe a triumphant, mighty King leading a powerful celestial army, vanquishing adversaries, and establishing the Kingdom of God on earth.
When He returns, He will not turn the other cheek. He will wage war!
Revelation 19:11 I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True; in righteousness, he judges and makes war.
There is a time for peace and a time for war (Ecclesiastes 3:8).
How do the children of the King know which path to take?
The New Testament elucidates the paramount importance of peace and the role of peacemakers.
Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
That is our prime directive. However, only some people we wish to be at peace with will reciprocate and want to be at peace with us.
Romans 12:18 Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.
Living in peace with others is the goal. However, Paul qualifies this standard with the proviso that, if possible, we must do all we can. Peace and harmony with others may not always be achievable. Children of the King are not responsible for the reluctance and failure of others to make peace. But we should always attempt to do so.
Sometimes, war is necessary. The desire for peace is not peace at any price but peace that adheres to principle. “Christianity is not an easy-going tolerance which will accept anything and shut its eyes to everything” (Barclay).
Matthew 10:16: I am sending you out like sheep surrounded by wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.
This should leave us somewhat conflicted. In such moments, reliance on the Father’s guidance becomes imperative. The Father must show the children of the King how to act in every given situation. Often, the Scriptures necessitate such dependence to discern the appropriate course of action in every circumstance.
Proverbs 26:4-5
4 Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will also be like him.
5 Answer a fool as his folly deserves, less he be wise in his own eyes.
Only through the guidance in the direction of the Holy Spirit do we know which response to give.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 1-31-3
© Dr. H 2024
Dr H Reflections 