and shall arbitrate between strong nations far away;
they shall beat their swords into ploughshares,
and their spears into pruning-hooks;
nation shall not lift up sword against nation,
neither shall they learn war any more;
but they shall all sit under their own vines and under their own fig trees,
and no one shall make them afraid;
for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has spoken.
Micah 4:3-4
I remember the song "Let There Be Peace on Earth". The lyrics suggest that one wishes not only that there be peace on earth, but that it begin with "me". "I" am in the middle or at the sidelines of many relationships...many human communities. The way that I function in every place has some effect upon the general climate. When I am peaceful, it is probable that my words, deeds, gestures...and even my glance...will contribute to whatever glimmers of God's Calm Presence are appearing.
So how do those thoughts relate to the reading from Micah? The prophet is speaking about national concerns...weapons of distruction being transformed into tools of production. The future intended by the Lord is characterized by shelter, provision, and security for all. Peace!
If these transformations are to begin with me, what sort of weapons must I lay upon the anvil of God's word so that they may be transformed for a peaceful purpose? What words or thoughts...what prejudices or prevailing attitudes have been either the source or the weapons of conflict in my family or community? How have I violated (or discounted) somebody else's integrity? When have I experienced the tremor of fear or insecurity?
This Advent week I am reminded of God's active work towards teaching me how all that I see as necessary to my self-protection can be transformed to serve the greater good of all! Let it begin....with me!
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