Dear Friends,
Peace is on the mind of most, if not all, of us these days. We think about world peace, peace in our country and peace in our cities. September is the month that we celebrate 11 Days of Global Peace. It is a time of coming together, honoring our differences and celebrating our similarities in an atmosphere of openness and acceptance.
The events planned during the 11 Days of Global Peace celebration are designed to promote peace through understanding. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Reach In, Reach Out, We Can Change the World”. The events planned for this celebration give us a chance to recognize and celebrate our oneness with God and with each other.
In the Beatitudes, Jesus said, “God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God”. Matthew 5:9 (NLT) Outward expressions of peace begin within the heart and mind of each of us. We may think that we have little affect on the world but, as we go about our daily lives, we have many opportunities to express peace by our thoughts, our speech and our actions. We can use kind words instead of criticism and gossip. We can forgive and release old hurts instead of holding on to them and causing the hardening of our hearts. Remember, sometimes we are the “forgiver” and sometimes we are the “forgiven”. We can forgive without condoning abusive behavior.
Our thoughts, words and actions are like a pebble thrown into a pond. It may look small but it has far reaching affects. Peace in this world is the responsibility of each one of us.
Rich Blessings to All,
Rev. Janie