“Is Peace Possible?” – 2 Corinthians 13:11

“Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” 

When we look at our current political climate and the immense chasm of ideology between the opposing parties, it’s a wonder we ever accomplish anything. This season will be a test case for years to come of the clash of those trying to build a legacy and make an impact. It’s interesting how “the perfect system” can look so completely different according to who you ask. 

Today marks a changing of the guard and there are strong feelings on both sides. We see the full spectrum from hope to despair when we consider our future, and one of the great things about our country is the freedom to have our own thoughts and ideas on the matter. It’s something I hope and pray we are able to maintain. 

And while we are free to enjoy our opinions and rights as citizens of this country, we need to be reminded of Paul’s final word to the church of Corinth, and to those of us who are also citizens of the Kingdom of God. “Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, and live in peace.” Paul was speaking to the body of believers and how they were to treat each other, but this attitude of peace, restoration, and comfort is also a part of our mission to a lost world. How we treat our fellow believers is to spill over into our everyday lives with our neighbors, co-workers, and family members, even if they voted for the other guy. It’s one of the ways we’re assured that the God of love and peace will be with us.  

While using the HEAR method (see below) consider the following questions: 

• How do you prioritize your dual citizenship (national and eternal) when there seems to be some competition between the two? 
• In what ways do you find it difficult to strive for peace and restoration for those you disagree with? 

Highlight – what words or phrases jump out at you? 

Explain – what does the passage mean? 

Apply – how does the passage intersect with your life today? 

Respond – how is God leading you to respond?