Editor's Section




Peacemaking

"Blessed are the peacemakers," said Jesus.

In our article theology of structure we discuss the significance of structure in systems. Here we offer a simple biblical suggestion for peacemaking.

With any situation where peacemaking is needed start with a small group of people who represent young and old, male and female, and all ethnic people in the region. Do not constitute any committees from the traditional male leadership.

Then, make everything scalable. That is, build into any rules and regulations, whether formal or informal, the same constituent people.

Take another look at Acts chapter 2 and change your focus. Typically we see only the miraculous results of the coming of the Holy Spirit and run off somewhere to try to emulate the gifts. Instead, focus on the constitution of Christianity in the equality of old and young, male and female, and all ethnicity. And not just ethnicity. "All people" must surely mean also the full range of intellect, of disability to ability. Any structure Christians establish must represent all spectrums.

Small groups of people so constituted meet with the simple goal of getting along. Then, more informal groups will grow and spread. Avoid organizations and buildings.

No "justice". No revenge. No competition for control. Just Jesus, forgiveness and love.