Love Pursues Peace

LOVE PURSUES PEACE

Begin by quieting your body and mind, remembering you are in God’s loving presence. Open your hands to reflect with your body your desire for a heart that’s open to whatever he has for you today. Spend a minute in silence.

Love calls us to build bridges when conflict seems inevitable, to be peacemakers when war would be easier. When we’d rather turn our backs and slam the door or seek revenge or silently stew, love says, “Pursue peace. Reach out. Swallow your pride. Forgive. Extend your hands.”

• What relationships come to mind when you reflect on the refrain “Pursue peace. Reach out. Swallow your pride. Forgive. Extend your hands”? Why? Ask God to help you understand what he might be inviting you to see or do.
• How might purposefully building bridges in areas of conflict cultivate your desire and ability to pursue peace in all situations?
• What most frequently keeps you from pursuing peace and reaching out in the midst of conflict?

Father, you are love. Jesus, you are love. Holy Spirit, you are love.

Shape me into the image of love, and lead me in the way of love. Amen.