Spiritual

Annie’s Journal

Written by Annie Warner Donnelly

Sept. 9, 2024 – Hello Everyone. September 21 has been designated as the United Nations (UN) International Day of Peace. What does this mean to us? Does it mean anything?

Will we talk about it within our families? How will we explain the meaning of this day in contrast to the September 21 news that will no doubt be filled with stories that lack peace?

Why did the UN think it was necessary to designate a day to remind us about peace? Isn’t being peaceful in our interactions with others something we should exhibit every day?

Is it necessary to be unpeaceful – to become angry? Sarcastic? Physically, mentally, emotionally or spiritually abusive? To lie? To cheat? To commit adultery? To steal? To be unpeaceful toward others because we’re afraid of them for reasons real or imagined; or because we want to maintain control over others so we feel safe? To do something that hurts us?

Does being unpeaceful increases our happiness? Does it help us maintain our health? Does being unpeaceful protect us or harm us?

Does God’s word mention peace? Yes. Here’s some examples.

• “The Lord shall fight for you, and you shall hold (on to) your peace.” (Exodus 14:14)
• “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust You.” (Isaiah 26:3)
• “The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.” (Isaiah 32:17)
• “Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)
• “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.” (Romans 5:1)
• “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18)

Is it true that living in peace with everyone depends on me? Depends on you? On our children? On our extended families? On our friends and neighbours? What will our response be to the UN International Day of Peace on September 21?

May God help us as we answer. Amen