Beyond the wildfires here in Nebraska, it seems our world is on fire – with hatred, war, violence and religious persecution. Drones with bombs and missiles are destroying peace and security in so many places throughout the world. Hopes for diplomatic solutions and sincerity in dialogue are always the best approach. Nevertheless, a “might makes right” solution seems to be the general way in which the world approaches regional, national or international disagreements.
Admittedly, I have no training or practical experience in diplomacy. Yet, like most of you, my hope for constructive dialogue would be to understand the needs of others and how we can coexist for the mutual benefit of all. Yet, if diplomacy is simply about what both sides can get out of the deal, the “what’s in it for me” approach, then it seems to the goal of mutual understanding and appreciation for the true needs and concerns of each other is lacking. The immediate goal of diplomacy might be to bring about a cease-fire, to stop the attacks and end the violence and destruction of people, their homes and their livelihoods. But that is only a first step. Ongoing dialogue must also get at the reason why these things are taking place in the first place.
Forty-five to fifty years ago, protestants and Catholics were killing each other in Northern Ireland while marrying each other in Dublin. Thankfully, that is no longer the case, though lasting memories of hatred and violence could easily ignite a new conflict. The world community is at odds with each other about the best approach to the political hotspots around the world. In recent years, only greater polarity has divided peoples and nations instead of mutual respect and dialogue. Yet because of advancements in communication, commerce and travel, many people have built friendships across seas and borders with one another that have benefited the human community.
The evil one is always looking to stir up trouble, whether in our families, in communities, in business environments or between nations. These days the word “demonizing” is often used to describe the hyper-critical way people talk about those of an opposite opinion. Unfortunately, what young people learn from this is the bizarre notion that if we disagree with each other, it means we hate each other. Really? Is that the way we want to live in this world? This has become so common that young people want “safe places” where they can be free to express their own thoughts and feelings.
Demonizing happens so much in politics. No matter what political party and in so many countries throughout the world, it seems that everyone on the other side of the conversation is “rotten to the core.” There can be no in-between. Political strategists believe that in order to win, you have to be on the attack. This then carries over into the way they conduct themselves after they are elected. The approach becomes more about wielding power and controlling others instead of statesmanship and the common good. Add to this the constant threat that power corrupts and soon good people can yield to these forces.
It all seems so much bigger than what any of us can deal with. Nevertheless, we have to engage our elected officials and others in positions of influence with the gospel. This does not mean we become pacifists, but rather, we tirelessly work to build a healthy rapport with others based on what our Lord has taught us. It is imperative that we live BY the gospel and develop a world view that is in step with what our Lord has taught us. I often remind people that Jesus preached and taught us long before there were political parties. His wisdom should guide our approach to life’s questions in every age.
Our Blessed Mother Mary, at Fatima, urged the world to pray the rosary for peace, for the conversion of Russia and all whose hearts have become hardened to Christ her Son and his Church. Her call to pray the rosary for peace and conversion of sinners (including ourselves) is more urgent than ever. It is not a political approach to the world, but rather a spiritual power greater than bombs and missiles. Radical jihadists may only want to kill and destroy, but the urgent prayer through the intercession of our Blessed Mother can convert them if we but believe in divine power and ask our Lady to intervene.
We are fools if we want peace only so that the stock market rebounds and our portfolios are again secure. While economic prosperity is good for our lifestyles, Jesus once asked, What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? (Mark 8:36) Let us pray for peace so that there might be a deeper appreciation for the precious gift of human life and for the human freedom to serve God as our faith believes. Unless we get on our knees and ask our Lady to end the “wildfires” of war and violence, we too will perish in the conflict that is destroying us all!
