Seeing uncontrolled dissension at demonstrations or in the media creates cultural ripples of anxiety for the observers who can fear for the future of our country. In the face of escalating conflict, it takes a non-anxious participant who can intervene with a disengaging comment or calming presence that breaks the cycle of escalation. It takes peacemakers who are committed to helping others live well in mutual respect in a divided culture.

Within the family of God, we not only can stand at the altar with those we disagree with, but we can go beyond tolerance to appreciate and find value in each other’s position. May the Peace Prayer of St. Francis give you a call and the inspiration to become peacemakers in your world:

PEACE PRAYER OF SAINT FRANCIS

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
Where there is sadness, joy.

O divine Master, grant that I many not so much seek
To be consoled as to console,
To be understood as to understand,
To be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.