Norfords' Ramblings

Monday December 8, 2008

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favour rests," Luke 2:13-14.

Ah, peace on earth: surely a pathetic wish by a naive few that refuse to accept the verdict of history: conflict and horror in Sudan and Congo, murderous attacks in Mumbai and ferocious rioting in Greece all combine with the record of mankind from his beginnings underlining the total elusiveness of peace. Thank God the attacks of political parties against each other in Ottawa have not degenerated beyond words—although words can veil a more sinister desire—and a brittle alliance of ideological enemies can barely hide their self seeking agendas.

Paul reminds us that those have been justified through faith have peace with God through Jesus Christ. When we have that peace we can have peace with ourselves that in turn fosters peace with others. But a recent correspondent after a term in politics wrote: “As one who has experienced both sides of this [discussion of the recent political upheaval] I would hasten to add that during the time when I served 8 years as an elected politician I never had to deal with the ‘politics’ in that system that I have encountered in the church.” If peace cannot be found here, where is it to be found?

You may be wondering what has this to do with the diary of my journey towards an operating theatre. It has me wondering too. Yet some thought reveals that there are those working tirelessly to oppose the destructive elements of society in many unobserved ways. And that includes our conscientious health professionals whether fighting disease or patching up victims of violence. Peace is not simply eradication of warfare; it is a spiritual victory against sin and its partners disease, decay and death.

I’m glad of the professionals that are committed to ending the battle for supremacy against the intruders in my body! Perhaps it is the myriad of individuals who have found peace with God in body, mind and spirit that is the final evidence of the peace Jesus came to bring.