December 13th
David and his Dad had been to the movies and were on their way home in the car. The movie of course had a hero, evil was conquered, and everyone lived happily ever after. David was still trying to fit the Christmas story into his world – and asked…
“If God wanted to put things right, why did he send a baby when he could have sent an army?
“There are many ways to win a conflict young man. First thing is to know the root of the problem. Imagine if all the money in the world spent on weapons was used to feed the hungry – mankind would be satisfied with no need for conflict.”
“Isn’t greed more than just food?”
“It is. Greed is all about what we think we need and how we satisfy that need in relation to others.”
As an army, a small group of angels would probably be enough, but what would that achieve? God is not a dictator and intends never to rule with force.
What is it to understand God and his ways? God is not a science that we can master. Our God given purpose is only to control what we have, the world and that which is rightfully given to us.
We are God’s creation and we can choose to go with his purpose – or follow the greed around us.
There would be no need of any army if Nations & Neighbours were satisfied with what they had! Our needs include; being valued, appreciated and loved. When these are not met in our day to day lives, conflict rises inside.
Habakkuk 1:2-4 Habakkuk’s complaint
How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save?
Why do you make me look at injustice? Why do you tolerate wrongdoing? Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife, and conflict abounds.
Therefore, the law is paralyzed, and justice never prevails.
The wicked hem in the righteous, so that justice is perverted.
Prayer
Lord God be my king – that I might serve through love. Settle the conflict in my heart, that it may not be played out in my relationships. Help me recognise that my purpose is to be a peacemaker in all situations.
Meet my needs Lord – that peace will reign and overcome my conflicts. For this is the battleground that conquers the world, in your name. Amen.
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Tomorrow – All wrapped up