Often, the Bible speaks of God’s “better way” referring primarily to salvation (Heb 8:6) and heaven (Heb 11:16), but also interpersonal relationships (Phil 1:23). Recently, current events in Baltimore, Maryland; Ferguson, Missouri and Charleston, South Carolina have given the country and the world contrasting reactions to killing and violence. Actions in Maryland and Missouri demonstrated a natural, human instinct for retribution – “an eye for an eye” riots, burnings, looting and striking out. Actions in South Carolina, on the other hand, demonstrated an “unnatural” response to violence – prayer and forgiveness.
The aftermath in Maryland and Missouri is continuing unrest and no closure.
The aftermath in South Carolina is a peaceful, loving community which has found closure.
There is a better way for us as individuals, families, churches, communities and a nation to work out the big gnawing issues that continue to divide. It was visible to all the world in Charleston and in Oct 2006 in Nickel Mines (Lancaster County), Pennsylvania where an Amish schoolhouse was attacked and five young girls were murdered.
That way is the way of Jesus.
Matthew 5:38 “Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth”
Matthew 5:44 “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.”
It’s not a naïve way, it’s a better way.