Sermon Short for November 10th, 2019 – Remembrance Day
Am I a true child of God?
Psalm 85, Matthew 5:9, Matthew 5:38-48
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the children of God.”
What do I make of this? Does it really apply to me? Does it really apply to my nation? My nation and I do not act like it. We can’t ignore the fact that in the past millennium, there have been more devastating wars among Christian groups fighting each other than between Christian and non-Christian states. The “Christian” countries are often at war with other faiths.
Jesus was clear that we were made for reconciliation, despite the fact that his scripture gave credence to a just war. “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ (that’s in the Old Testament) But I tell you, Do not resist (or retaliate against) an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.” (Matt.5.38-9)
If we want to be considered a child of God we must be committed to peace and justice. We must oppose hostilities and seek reconciliation with our enemies.
Good luck with that!