James 3: 13”Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. 15 Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness.”
How did the dove become a symbol of peace? The use of a dove and olive branch as a symbol of peace originated with the early Christians, who portrayed the act of baptism accompanied by a dove holding an olive branch in its beak and also used the image on their sepulchres. These believers adopted the dove because of the story of Noah sending out a dove to determine when the flood had ended. When the dove returned with an olive branch in its mouth, Noah knew that the land was becoming dry and that it was safe to leave the ark. Doves also have a reputation for being soft gentle birds who do not harm other birds. Sometimes pacifists are referred to as “doves.”
Being a person of peace is very difficult! In the last few days, we have witnessed scenes of young people attempting to clean up after rioters, only to be criticized or even to be attacked. These young people were people of peace attempting to repair the damage done by others. Many of the people who have died in the riots were people of peace who were attacked despite their innocent actions. The Civil Rights movement of the 1960’s succeeded precisely because most of the protestors remained peaceful, even after being beaten with clubs and thrown in jail. India gained its independence from Great Britain not through violence but through Mahatma Gandhi’s peaceful non – resistance campaigns.
In some cities in the U.S., violence has been avoided when people of peace came together with police for meals and prayer meetings. Those people saved their communities by their bravery. And at the same time, those courageous people “reaped the fruit of righteousness.”
Marching in protest marches has little value if it encourages others to become violent. In these days of videos instantly posted on YouTube, you have no control over the way your attempt at a peaceful demonstration might be misused. On the other hand, cleaning up a neighborhood demonstrates a willingness to go beyond the protests to truly bring healing.
Today, let us be people of peace. It’s difficult and potentially even dangerous. But in the end, it’s worth it.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5: 9 – 10
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