Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.”
NL Daily Devotion for Monday, June 28, 2021
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
It’s not as simple as it sounds. I mean, sure it is, as I interpret it. I have some pretty clear definitions of what’s evil (accumulating wealth, white supremacy, and oppression of any kind, for example) and what peace means (it’s not the absence of conflict; it’s justice for all of God’s creation). But there are folks—even Christians—who don’t hold with these definitions, and who use their own definitions of what’s evil and what peace means to actually oppress others.
What I need God’s help with is engaging with those who disagree with me. How do I enter into conversation without wanting to tear them down? How do I listen deeply to their needs and see them as God’s beloved children? How can I invite others to work toward a good and a peace that benefits everyone? Like I said. Not simple. But worth the effort. God help us all in this work!
Does my understanding of what is good and what constitutes peace prevent me from deeply engaging those who disagree with me?
