If It Is Possible (and It Is Not Always Possible)

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. - Romans 12:17-18

The Spirit recognizes that there are conflict. The Spirit recognizes that there’s the temptation to get even. But the Spirit is always leading us into the ways of Jesus, which are the ways of peace. Not a peace devoid of truth and not a peace that ignores justice. But a true, deep, healing peace.

And it’s not always possible.

Did you notice that in the verses above? “If it is possible…” That means that it’s not always possible. Of course, “if it depends on you” really pushes us to take the initiative and to go the extra mile. But sometimes the journey of reconciliation and peace is not available to us because it requires two parties, and the other person is not open to it.

How does this settle for you? What about this recognition that peace will not always be possible encourages you? What about it challenges you?

Talk with Jesus about these things.