Peace

I turned on the news today and found out that President Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. My reaction, along with many in the United States and the world, was of surprise. Some strongly disagree with this choice simply because of the President’s political affiliation or his policies. Most reactions, including my own, came from the fact that Mr. Obama’s administration hasn’t yet achieved much measurable success in terms of making or keeping peace. As the story continued to develop, many supposed that the committee that chose Mr. Obama for the award considered his potential to be a peacemaker on the world stage.

To be clear, I have neither insight nor a strong opinion about whether this award was appropriate at this time. However, in reflection, it did confirm and affirm to me one central truth—there will be no true peace unless it comes by the hands of the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

Jesus, after his arrest and he was presented to Pilate, gave us these familiar words to think about, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place.” (John 18:36) For “now,” our Lord’s kingdom is not of this world, but it won’t always be that way. The Prince of Peace will come again and rule in a way that befits his title. Christ’s was inaugurated as King on this earth when He overcame death on the cross, but His kingdom has not yet fully come.

In the meantime, God’s Word calls us to live in the tension that we are currently citizens in two kingdoms. We are reminded to “store up our treasures in Heaven,” (Matthew 6:20) but also to be salt and light in this world (Matthew 5:13-16).

I think this dual-citizenship should challenge us as we respond to the issues that concern us as we continue life in the United States. Living a life as a disciple of Jesus is hard. We must reject the things that embody the godless immorality of our day, but also beware of those who look out for their own self-interests by disguising their selfishness with words baptized in religious language. I ponder Jesus’ words as he sent the disciples out for ministry, telling them, “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore, be shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves.” (Matthew 10:16)

Don’t settle for the party line. Don’t listen to the pundits and talk show hosts without a critical ear. Too often we let these voices form our opinions and then we ask God to jump on board with what we think. Instead, be a people of prayer. Be a people of God’s Word. Start at these points and then form your opinions. Pray to the Prince of Peace for his kingdom to fully come. With Paul may we say, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14)