It was on this day in the year 66 that civil war broke out in Jerusalem between activists and the so-called “Peace Party” – those who wanted to sue for peace with the Romans – demonstrating that, when judgment comes, it isn’t necessarily administered by an external force. To the contrary, it is quite common for judgment, and the destruction that accompanies it, to come from within. Consider this prophecy that comes from Isaiah:
“I will set Egyptians against Egyptians; everyone will fight against his brother, and everyone against his neighbor, city against city, kingdom against kingdom.” (Isaiah 19:2)
Though this prophecy is directed at Egypt, the internal strife that is described could just as easily be speaking of the situation in America, right now. For some time now, we have been engaged in a civil war on many fronts. Though it has been bloodless for the most part, nevertheless, fierce battles are being waged between opposing philosophies and it seems that everywhere we turn, brother is against brother and neighbor is against neighbor. I dare say our present situation will only worsen as times goes on, meaning that it is only a matter of time before there is bloodshed. Once first blood is drawn it will, unfortunately, begat more bloodshed. This distressing scenario will, most likely, be replayed in other countries throughout the world, as well.
It is very important that God’s people don’t get sucked into all of the bickering to the point that we lose sight of what is really important. It’s critical that His people do not turn on one another but remain steadfast and focused on being salt and light. The Messiah was very clear that when the salt isn’t doing what it’s supposed to do, it’s not good for anything (Matthew 5:13). When the salt considered good for nothing, it is tossed out into the street and trodden underfoot. In other words, if we allow ourselves to get sucked into the mindless rhetoric that is so common today, it might be that we will risk losing our saltiness. So, perhaps we should all refocus on those things that really matter. We must make certain that we are being the salt and light that the Messiah expects us to be. In spite of the constant fighting that surrounds us, we must be true and faithful ambassadors of the Prince of Peace. As He said, we will be known as His if we commit ourselves to love one another. Heaven knows, this world could only benefit from a sincere demonstration of brotherly love; let us be the ones to lead the way in this demonstration. That’s our mission as His people.
Shalom.
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