Peace vs. Violence

Feb. 23, 2015 Monday Message:

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Matthew 5:9 NIV

It’s easy to distance ourselves from conflict on the other side of the world. But as of last Saturday, the conflict has been brought into our backyard.

The Mall of America, just a few miles from where we live and do ministry, was specifically named in an Al-Shabaab call for attacks, along with the West Edmonton Mall and London’s Oxford Street. The same Al-Shabaab group claims responsibility for the 2013 attack at a Nairobi, Kenya mall, where 60 people lost their lives. This Somali-based group is counting on support of the sizable Twin Cities’ Somali community.

Here’s the situation as I see it: Al-Shabaab, ISIS, ISIL, al Qaeda et al are radical extremists. But the vast majority of Muslim people are not radical, extreme or violent. The people I have met want to work a job, earn a living, and be able to take care of their families – end of story. They’re not looking to become a hero or martyr. Unfortunately, the extreme minority is speaking for all followers of Muhammad, and the world is listening. This is a problem that Muslims need to solve within their community. Only Muslims can endorse spokespeople for their religion. Outsiders, or “infidels,” have no authority or credibility within their ranks.

In the mean time, while we can’t live in fear, it would be prudent to be cautious. In Matthew 24, Jesus tells us that these things are signs of the end of the age. “Many will claim to be the Messiah, and will deceive many.” “You will hear of war and rumors of war.” “Nation will rise up against nation.” Our salvation comes in verse 13: “The one who stands firm to the end will be saved.”

Come quickly, Lord Jesus!

Norton Lawellin

Each Sunday, Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This week, Mar. 1, Pastor Michael Pilla continues our journey through Acts.