I am sure that most of you have heard the news that a ceasefire has been reached between Hamas and Israel in Gaza. Some of the details of the agreement are:
- Immediate halt to fighting: The agreement aims to end the ongoing conflict and restore order in the region.
- Release of hostages: Israel will release all remaining Israeli hostages held in Gaza, with the first release expected to begin soon.
- Release of Palestinian prisoners: Nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners will be released in exchange for the Israeli hostages.
- Humanitarian aid: A surge of humanitarian aid will be provided to Gaza, which has faced severe food shortages and famine.
- Disarmament and governance: The agreement leaves the disarmament of Hamas and the future governance of Gaza for a later phase, which is expected to be more uncertain.
In an article entitled, Biden commends Trump for getting ceasefire deal ‘over the finish line’, former President Biden was quoted as saying, “The road to this deal was not easy. My Administration worked relentlessly to bring hostages home, get relief to Palestinian civilians, and end the war. I commend President Trump and his team for their work to get a renewed ceasefire deal over the finish line.” Biden also expressed his hope that the Middle East is on a path to enduring peace and “a future for Israelis and Palestinians alike with equal measures of peace, dignity, and safety.” We do need to celebrate this ceasefire and this peace and pray that indeed this will be an enduring peace with dignity and safety.
As Christ followers, we know that the only way to have complete and perfect peace in any relationship around the entire globe is for everyone to submit to the Prince of Peace, Jesus the Christ. Sadly, we also know that not everyone will do this. You and I, who know the Prince of Peace, even have a hard time submitting consistently to him. We also know that before Christ returns, there will be wars and rumors of wars, and much of this will be in the Middle East, but everywhere as well. Nevertheless, Jesus commands us to be peacemakers. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5.9) Paul wrote, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” (Romans 12.18)
And so, let us celebrate this peace. Let us praise God for his handiwork in bringing about this peace. And let us pledge our commitment to bringing about peace in all our relationships.
In Christ Alone
Bermudian Church – a Covenant Brethren Church
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