7 March – Helen Mason – Restoration House

Peace and hope for those in conflict

On Friday 1st March women from the Petersfield and Liss churches held a service for Prayer for Peace in the Middle East. In preparing this service we discussed our thoughts, and confusion, over what stand we should take, as Christians, on the situations that are currently ongoing in that region.

The world view appears to be divisive and polarised. As Christians what should we be doing? The situation is not a clear black and white; one side is right and one side is wrong as the events that led up to the current situation also need to be considered. There was agreement that what is happening many people in the region is atrocious, but what can we do?

A biblical principle, which might be helpful, from the writer Paul says, “Therefore let us stop passing judgement on one another. Instead make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” Though this is written about the observance of food rituals I do believe that it provides a positive heart attitude for events in the world today. To paraphrase Paul, “Let hope break out, releasing joy. Don’t give up in the face of difficult situations but always talk to Father God.” In Paul’s letter to the Philippians he urges them “not to be anxious about anything but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Some may say that I’m sitting on the fence and I have to choose – so I will choose to keep my heart and prayers focused on Father God, the God of hope and peace.