The word of Isaiah is a call to the people of Christendom to strive for something beyond what has become commonplace in this crazy world. History has endless accounts of Christianity being used to justify war and fuel hatred. Isaiah stands apart from this view, and pushes for a world of peace. There is a goal set forth that no nation will pick up a sword against another nation, and there will be nothing known except the art of peace. This verse embraces the first week of Advent, which preaches on hope.
Hope is what will fuel us to achieve this beautiful world. There are already groups in our nation that are pushing for universal peace under the doctrine of Christian nonviolence theory – like RAWtools, an organization that is following the idea of beating swords into plowshares and spears into pruning hooks. They, along with any who wish to join their cause, turn guns into art and preach on the ideals of hope for a beautiful new world.
We hope that you all take hope in the idea that people are taking steps to create this nonviolent world today.
Take a breath and envision a beautiful future. A place where there is no longer pain where hope is not an uncommon thought or looked down upon.
God, bring us into this new era of peace, void of wars, and full of a deep and radical love for everyone. Bring us back to your vision of Earth, a perfect Garden where nature and humanity thrive together. Help us realize this brave new world, and love us while we stumble upon the pathway to you. In Christ’s name we pray, amen.
UKirk Furman
Words for Waiting 