Can't We All Just Get Along?

That question has been asked alot during times of real tragedy, and at times when people are trying to be funny. The most memorable time was in 1992 during the LA riots. After a couple days, a man named Rodney King went on TV and asked that very question. Can't we all just get along.

Many of us look at the world around us and ask the same question. We want countries to get along, people to get along, and as Christians we want the world to get along with us. It is then odd that Jesus would say in in Matthew 10:34-36, "Do not think I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword." He goes on to take about the divisions that will be caused by Him. Yet, is Jesus not called Prince of Peace, Lord of Peace?

Before you call me a heretic, think about what He is saying. Romans 5:1 tells us Jesus did bring the possibility of peace, but it is peace between God and us. That through His death and resurrection we can be at peace with God. The result, alot of the world will hate us.

Jesus was not saying that He wanted to cause division, but live for him, stand for him, and you will see division. In some countries it will cost you your life, and in others your freedom. Jesus was trying to make His followers aware that following would cause conflict, not remove it.

As the Message says Jesus did not come to make life cozy, but He came offering us something that the world cannot offer, and the world cannot take away. Peace with God, eternity in His presence. As we go through our days here on earth, He gives us a peace that passes all understanding as we face the conflicts of this world.