Elusive Peace

There are yet again new rounds of negotiations to end the fighting in two major wars.

First, Israel has reportedly signaled agreement with a U.S.-led framework that includes a ceasefire, hostage exchanges, and increased aid into Gaza. Hamas wants changes to the framework but has reportedly indicated an openness to continued negotiations.

Next, hostilities between Russia and Ukraine are intensifying even as officials from both countries meet in Istanbul for peace talks. Russia continues to insist Ukraine give up part of its territory in exchange for peace—a demand Ukraine has consistently rejected.

Analysis and eternal perspective: Peace is very, very hard to achieve. It can therefore be almost impossible to know when peace talks are productive and when they are merely theatrics. This is particularly true in both of these wars, as each conflict has produced a seemingly endless stream of negotiations—none of which has produced a lasting peace.

And yet, your job as a Jesus follower is to faithfully and persistently pray for, and work for, both peace (Ps. 34:14) and justice (Is. 1:17).

It feels as though we in The Equipped community are perpetually returning to these two reminders, and it can be frustrating when there seems to be no sign of progress. Even so, it is reassuring to know that your job and mine is to simply stay the course. Your God is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb. 13:8). He is unchanging, even in the face of overwhelming world events.

“Seek peace and pursue it” (Ps. 34:14).

“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed” (Is. 1:17).

The following article originally appeared in Thann’s “The Equipped” Weekly Newsletter. For more information on Thann’s weekly email, click here.