06 January

“Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?”(James 4:1)

“I accept your apologies. I am sorry too. I consent to reconciliation,” said 13-year-old Chinyere to Ngozi. “Condescend?” Ngozi screeched. She retorted angrily, “No, I do not accept your apologies. If our friendship is not important to you, then reconciliation is not necessary.” “Oh no, I didn’t say condescend, I said ‘consent’”, answered Chinyere, almost in tears, and all was resolved. Misunderstandings from words, attitudes and actions! We sometimes behave like these 13-year-olds. We do not listen properly before we speak, even to our children. We read meanings from our heads to words for what was not intended. We take each other for granted. Peace, love and joy elude us. We should have an attitude of faith in God and others. Yes, many in the world are evil and fail us, but many are good and bless us.

ACTION: In faith, let us be positive and give people the benefit of the doubt.

PRAYER: Lord, please grant us the grace to seek peace for such a time as this.