Lord Jesus, we are so ready for these promises to become a reality: “He (the Messiah) makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire” “They will hammer their swords into plowshares.” (Ps. 46:9; Isa. 2:4). When you return, the whole earth, including Russia and the Ukraine, will be a giant garden of grace, for the benefit of all. We. Cannot. Wait.
Instead of “wars and rumors of war”—or even “fights and quarrels” among neighbors, friends, spouses, and family members (James 4:1-2), we will enjoy the fullness of your reign and peace, forever and ever (Isa 9:7). We will finally and fully, love you, and everyone, as you love us. Again… We. Cannot. Wait.
How then shall we live and love until that Day? You tell us to, “Put away your sword,” Jesus told him. “Those who use the sword will die by the sword.“ (Matt 26:52). On a very daily, practical basis, Jesus help us see and grieve how we’ve turned our attitudes and words into swords, guns, and grenades. Weaponized selfishness, fear, and disappointment can do a lot of unnecessary damage. Forgive us Jesus.
You’ve also told us, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matt. 5:9). Jesus, we are most like you when we’re building bridges of understanding, mercy, and grace. Help us. Free us. Change us. So Very Amen.
