Peace is Hard
Today’s Bible Verse:
Psalm 34:14 ESV
Turn away from evil and do good;
seek peace and pursue it
Yesterday's shocking news of an assassination attempt against former President Trump serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace and the ever-present threat of evil in our world. While we are grateful that the attempt was unsuccessful,it is a sobering moment that calls us to reflect on the words of Psalm 34:14.
As Christians, we are called to actively turn away from evil in all its forms. This includes not only violent acts but also the hatred, division, and vitriol that often fuel such violence. We must examine our own hearts and minds, ensuring that we are not harboring any seeds of bitterness or resentment that could lead us down a path of darkness.
Furthermore, we are called to do good and seek peace. This involves actively working towards reconciliation and understanding, even with those with whom we disagree. We must be willing to engage in respectful dialogue, seeking common ground and building bridges of peace.
The pursuit of peace is not a passive endeavor. It requires intentional effort and a willingness to sacrifice our own pride and prejudices. We must be willing to forgive, to extend grace, and to seek the well-being of others, even those who may have wronged us.
In the aftermath of yesterday's events, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of peace. Let us pray for the safety of our leaders and for healing in our nation. Let us work towards a society where violence and hatred are replaced with love,compassion, and understanding.
PRAYERS
Keep in Your Prayers:
All people dealing with cancer
Those who reject Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
A Prayer for Today:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for protecting former President Trump from harm. We pray for healing for our nation and all those affected by yesterday's events. Please help us to turn away from evil and actively seek peace. Fill our hearts with Your love and compassion, and guide us to build a more just and peaceful world. In His name, we pray. Amen.
Luther’s Morning Prayer:
I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.
Apostles’ Creed:
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth.
And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
The Lord’s Prayer:
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.
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