There is no better rendering of the essence of peace than that of Martin Luther King.
Sometimes, however, what isn’t better can at least steer us to what is more basic. And so while we defer to MLK on levels of eloquence and profundity, there is something yet to add as a worthy footnote.
For to arrive at a goal of peace must presuppose that the traveler of its challenging road carry an inner peace sufficient to navigate the land mines on the way. Peace within is of necessity a product of placing all worldly concerns at the foot of an all-powerful God, then trusting in wisdom and grace.
The contemporary hymn, “They’ll Know We Are Christians (By Our Love)” carries a convincing case that being recognized in a certain vein is dependent upon what one projects from within. Love is, of course, one of the fruits of the spirit—as is peace. They will also know we are Christians by our peace. Is it not therefore persuasive that those who have cultivated an inner peace in Christ will likewise be recognized as a peacemaker?
Jesus leaves this promise for his followers: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” And on his unshakable authority we may humbly add a sturdy foundation to the words of Martin Luther King, an acknowledgement that to be able to walk the road of peace, we must first have the peace of Christ established within us.
It is only then that, when tempted to go the way of conflict and confrontation, we may instead find ourselves equipped for the higher callings of restoration and reconciliation.
Lew Witham, SJ&P Committee Member