Protest in Madrid against war and terrorism. © Adolfo Lujan via flickr.com. Used under the Creative Commons license
“Let me hear what God the Lord will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.” (Psalm 85:8 NRSV)
In the wake of recent terrorist attacks, nations have been on high alert anticipating further aggression. November saw four major attacks (in Lebanon, France, Nigeria, and a Russian airliner over Sinai) which killed over 400 people. Numerous other shootings, bombings and acts of terror were also reported around the world. As the World Methodist family, we collectively mourn for the victims of these heinous attacks and for their families and loved ones. We pray for God’s comfort and peace to settle upon them as they grieve for those whose lives were so abruptly cut short.
As people of faith, we know that God does not require us to seek vengeance. Rather, “he will speak peace to his people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.” In this time of fear and uncertainty, The World Methodist Council calls upon all persons of goodwill to be peacemakers and to care for those around us, especially the vulnerable. Let us be a beacon of light in these moments of darkness so that God’s light may shine brightly. Let us snuff out hatred and violence, extinguishing the momentum of this terrorist regime. Violence begets violence, and violence in the name of God has no victory, only defeat. As ONE people in Christ, may we seek to uphold the dignity and humanity of all persons, regardless of their race, religion, creed, gender, or nationality. As ONE people in Christ, let us share the love of God and extend welcome to all that we meet who are hurting, grieving, or in need.