Blessed are the Peacemakers

If peacemaking were easy there wouldn't be a United Nations or "special envoys" traversing the planet trying to solve the wars all over the world. What would JESUS do if he were in Lebanon, Afghanistan, Iraq etc..... Well you can bet he'd be feeding and clothing the poor and neglected people and not driving in an armored covered Limo. When you look at the gospels you see that while Jesus had contact with people from every segment of society he paid more attention to the poor. Scripture teaches us that God loves people rich and poor.... but the gospel (good news) is often ignored or corrupted by the rich and powerful. Jesus spent time and invested himself in the poor and disenfranchised for the reason that they had "ears to hear". To put it bluntly they knew they needed help. What type of relationships do we have with the poor or needy in our community? What constitutes need in their lives: $, status, jobs, friendship, community, relationship with a loving God? The Bible tells us that vengeance belongs to God and is not delegated to human agents. Have I forgiven those who have hurt me or let me down? To be blessed by God means I need to let go of hatred and let God be God. When I assume the mantle of judgement by bearing grudges or actively seeking to hurt another person I am assuming the role of God... and I am wrong. Let's commit to be peacemakers today... and be like Jesus.

World Peace and the College Campus

Ever wonder what you can do to help reduce war, terrorism and other forms of general craziness? You might want to consider building a friendship with a student from another nation attending University in your area! Did you know that most of the world leaders today studies in American Universities. Some had great experiences and love our nation. Others were treated badly and their foreign policy today in some ways reflect the experiences they had in the past. I don't know about you but I think it makes sense to work on peace at the local level. If you live anywhere near Mobile we could use your help in making "PEACE" by loving and serving the people God has chosen to send our way. The next time you watch the news about Lebanon, Iraq, Afghanistan or Israel and get depressed, anxious or frustrated.... Don't just sit there call or e-mail me and we will enlist you in the PEACE MAKERS CORP!
Peace;
Jim

Waiting for the World

Well it's July 27th in Mobile, Alabama. My family and I are waiting for the 250 or so new international students who will soon arrive to study at the University of South Alabama to come to our city. It's hot and humid and our schedule is different then it will be in just a few short weeks. Students from all over the world will be coming with lots of needs, questions, fears and hopes. My prayer is that I will respond with God's love and not get frustrated or irritated by doing things in my own strength. God loves people so much. I know my family and I are doing what he has called us to do. I am already looking forward to the gifts he will give us in the form of real people made in his image. If you're reading this post I hope you'll pray with us!
With Grace and Love;
Jim