Around the world, and throughout the ages, there are certain circumstances that are repeatedly faced by people from each walk of life, and in every corner of the globe. It is interesting to observe the patterns of the human condition for which we can all feel mutually connected. Some of these are virtuous and reflect the beautiful things in this world that most of us feel good about, such as the precious love that is experienced in a mother for her newborn baby, the strong work ethic of a father in providing for his family, or the desire to make choices that selflessly help other people.
We can find examples of these types of attributes in humans the world over. And yet, while these examples demonstrate some of the brightness of humanity as prevalent, they aren’t universal. Not all mothers feel this love for her baby, nor does every dad work diligently to meet the needs of his family, and some people are not willing to make personal sacrifices for the benefit of another. As there are certain physical characteristics that we all seem to share in common, there are also non-physical attributes that are typical to mankind, in both males and females that exist in every generation; among them is the propensity toward interpersonal conflict and the need for resolution.
The Bible speaks of our defected nature and the effects of sin, particularly selfishness, on all of our relationships: with God and one another. It seems that we engage in various sorts of interpersonal struggle from the moment we are able to. Regardless of the identification of when or where disagreement begins, by a certain age, every child on the planet has experienced some sort of clash with another human. And each person must learn how to address friction when it arises. The essence of what is labeled “the gospel” is a repaired relationship opportunity with God offered to us as a free gift. While there will always be those who reject this idea for reasons that make sense to them, relationship restoration with God is generally much simpler for us than with people.
When folks are asked about the critical issues of life that need to be addressed, often one will mention some form of conflict resolution. Whether personal, societal or international, the need to correct disharmony is key to the pursuit of happiness. Every march for world peace is a cry for conflict resolution. Each family or civil court hearing is an attempt at addressing discord. All corporate negotiations, legislative debates or marriage counseling sessions have this same basic agenda. Since the purpose, role and function, of peace making is paramount in the home, society and against global threats, I believe this deserves our undivided attention.
The topic of conflict resolution and peacemaking is of particular concern to me. Since this is a matter that affects everyone, and often, our inability to resolve disputes well brings consequences that are severe, not only upon ourselves but also onto others, it seems a worthy investment of time and energies to understand this subject deeper. In the global theater on the military and political front lines, in corporate boardrooms, as well as in homes throughout the world, the prevalence of relational dysfunction provides testament of our desperate need for answers.
As a pastor, I personally am involved in the intercessory work of intervention through pre-marriage and marriage counseling, divorce recovery, as well was various relational issues in families and organizations. I can say from my own personal life as well as my experiences in ministry, the need to resolve disagreement is central to so much of our lives, no wonder Jesus said “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9). If you need help in this area, why not ask for it from the “Prince of Peace.”