The Christian faith includes both personal and public ramifications. However, most churches in America overemphasize personal faith and underemphasize public faith. For example, all churches care deeply about individual moral behavior, which is obviously important. But Scripture teaches us God…
Differing perspectives and our dreams of peace
Yaakov Rotblit once wrote a lyric that has taken on a life far beyond its origins as a love song: “You took my hand in yours and said to me, ‘Let’s go down to the garden. … Things we see…
US congregations appeal for peace with Cuba
Thirteen mainly Baptist congregations in the United States have issued a “Plea for Peace with Cuba” that describes a “moment of exceptional urgency” in the Caribbean nation. “We sound this call as those who have walked with and seen the…
No justice, no peace
The NAACP Legal Defense Fund was founded in 1940 by Thurgood Marshall. It was America’s premier legal organization fighting for racial justice. “Justice” is a legal term as well as a moral term — legal as seen in the statues…
¡Silencio! When and when not to keep silence
The principal strength from which the forces of despotism operate comes not from their accomplices in infamy but from the silence of those who turn a blind eye, who have been cowed into silence, saved (they think) by means of…
A surprising elevator music Christmas prayer for peace
Not to rush the season or anything — the box stores, television ads and social media feeds have done that — but I want to call attention to a Christmas song you’ve probably already heard this year. It’s part of…
Upside Down Advent: Anxiety versus peace
I had the good fortune to spend three hours in the car with my son Garrett Saturday. He’s our avant garde jazz saxophonist and composer/arranger. He told me about a Substack he’s reading that’s written by a well-known figure in…
A rabbi’s call for balance, moral clarity and reconciliation
A foundational belief in Judaism teaches, “Seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:15). We dream with Isaiah’s vision found in Isaiah 2:4: “Nation shall not take up sword against nation; they shall never again know war.” This rabbi’s favorite verse…
The devil already is in the details of ‘Trump Plan’ for Gaza
The prisoner exchanges and the announcement of the “Trump Plan” for Gaza, brokered by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio were met with a sigh of relief for many Palestinians. Yet, as the dust settles, it’s clear this plan has…
Jack Graham says never-Trumpers should rethink now
President Donald Trump’s role in securing a peace deal between Israel and Hamas should cause never-Trumpers to change their minds, according to Dallas megachurch pastor Jack Graham. On Monday, Oct. 13, as hostages and prisoners were exchanged in the Middle…
In first interview, Pope Leo XIV takes on billionaires, polarization and war
The Catholic news website Crux published excerpts of Pope Leo XIV’s first extended interview with any media outlet, giving the first look at his perspective on the papacy and the challenges facing the church and society. Leo talked about his…
In light of New Orleans, Christians have a better message to fight radicalization
The recent terrorist attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day has shaken the nation. As details emerge, the tragedy underscores the urgent need to confront the forces that fuel radicalization and extremism. In the face of such senseless violence,…