“In the last days the mountain of the Lord’s temple will be established as the highest of the mountains; it will be exalted above the hills, and all nations will stream to it.” — Isaiah 2:2 NIV

Sitting in the church sanctuary that day, I was told to close my eyes for what felt like an eternity. Two men were making a special presentation about the dangers of attending public school. To drive their point home, they showed the adults some pictures they had apparently gleaned from a sex education class. My parents’ job was to get me enrolled in a Christian school as soon as possible. My job was to write the teacher I loved and explain to her why I was leaving her godless school. I was in 3rd grade.

When we decide to follow Jesus we also decide to turn away from the sinful things in the world that once demanded our loyalty. But the prophet reminds us that the unbelieving people in the world are not our enemies. One day the gospel will spread to all peoples of the earth and the whole world will recognize God’s glory. Our mission then, as Christians, is not to wage war against “them” but to love until there is only us.

Lord Jesus, help us to be patient and trust that you are faithful to redeem this fallen world. Our hearts are prone to seek conflict; help us instead to pursue peace with all your children. Amen.