January 15, 2010

This reading seems to hold a great paradox! But as we know there are no real contradictions in Scripture, only apparent ones. Proverbs 3:17 says of wisdom: "Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace."

One of the big issues in the world today is "how can we have peace and stop all the fighting?" We will have to bring heaven to earth.

Jacob's less-than-peaceful situations seem to be related all to family members giving him trouble. David's complaints in the Psalms had to do with enemies causing him sorrow and pain. I think we can safely say that most of our grief is centered in our relationships with other people, often family.

Jesus said, "I have not come to bring peace, but a sword." Matthew 10:34. The whole section has to do with how we respond to others. The sword of truth is cutting us off from the earthly way of relating. Jesus says:
1. Don't be surprised when you're criticized or rejected because of Christ.
2. Don't fear people; fear God.
3. Have your worth in God and you won't worry about people accepting you (which leads to compromise).
4. Don't hold back your testimony: say what He tells you to.
5. If you love Him more than anyone else, you will have life.
6. If you live Him, speak Him, demonstrate Him, others will see Him; if they respond to Him, then they will come into right relationship with Him and with you.

Jacob obeyed God's word and his enemies were compelled to make peace with Him. David trusted in God and prevailed. They were both rooted in the reality of the Kingdom and promises of God rather than in the earthly realm.

The tree of life is rooted in the heavenlies. If we choose that tree, rather than the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, which is rooted in the earthly realm (the Word is cutting us off from that), we will have life and peace regardless of our earthly situation.