But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous.

[Adapted from “Blessings of Community” by Patricia Cole, Jul/Aug 2024 Herald, p. 40]

Community can get messy and troublesome, but it is essential for our happiness, Many voices and opinions clamor for our money, time, and interest. The community can become divided. Our actions and responses can affect all.

Communities come in many forms: family, neighbors, workplace, church, clubs, sports teams, and more. Our church community sometimes can be the most difficult to navigate. Generally, we are volunteers and lay ministers. We are guided by our faith in the Divine and the testimony of God’s love in our lives.

Love is always the answer. We all know this, although our traditions, personalities, and egos can come into play. Many voices and opinions opt for the best way to move forward, to be whom Christ has called us to be. Testimony of outspoken and passionate participants can cause concern for quiet, reserved participants.

When conflict arises, the Body of Christ can be wounded.

Relationships are formed by honest communication, with compassionate listening to one another, remembering always to preface with love. Mistakes are made, hurtful words are spoken at times, but forgiveness and reconciliation are available to all. God forgives us, and we can forgive, too.

Pastoral care sometimes is saved only for the pastor. We all must learn to be pastoral. Not only for those who look and think as we do, but for those who are different. Much is to be learned from each other. God is in all of creation and all of us.

Reconciliation is found through kindness, compassion, and love. Take the opportunity to visit, text, call, or email those whose family members are departed. Pray for one another and discern a way forward. God gives us the courage needed. Community will be blessed.

Prayer Phrase

“Do not be afraid, for I am your God…” (Isaiah 41:10).

Voices of God

What is the voice of God saying to us? Do we hear the whispers of God’s longing for shalom; God’s dream of beauty and wholeness for all creation? Do we hear the “voice” of God calling to us in faces and eyes, in the sounds of suffering and joy, in scripture and sacred word, in tears and laughter, in silence and noise? Spend a few moments reflecting on when and how God’s voice speaks to you. When did you first feel called to join God in the pursuit of peace and justice? How does the call of shalom continue to come to you through the many “voices” of God?

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.