Peace and Reconciliation

I am going to make a solemn promise to you and to everyone who will live after you. This includes the birds and the animals that came out of the boat. I promise every living creature that the earth and those living on it will never again be destroyed by a flood. ~ Genesis 9:9-11 (CEV)

And he has given us the work of sharing his message about peace. ~ 2 Corinthians 5:19 (CEV)

KEY IDEA:

God would rather make peace with his enemies than destroy them.

PRAYER:

Thank you, Lord, for the peace and reconciliation that was established through Christ Jesus. Thank you for entrusting that message of peace and reconciliation to your church. Although, sometimes it seems that we have not fully grasped something so basic. We (and I include myself) fight with those who have different opinions. We only fellowship with people of equal standing. We prefer to blast our enemies than to establish relationships. It seems like we behave in the complete opposite of what you've done. I'm glad that you're not going to flood us out. We deserve flood waters. But I am trusting in the peace and reconciliation of Christ to carry me through. And I am hoping that such will begin to characterize my life. Please make it so in the name of Jesus. Amen.