Psalm 37:37 
Consider the blameless, observe the upright; 
a future awaits those who seek peace. (NIV)

“Look at those who are honest and good, 
for a wonderful future awaits those who love peace.” (NLT)

Keep your eye on the healthy soul,
Scrutinize the straight life;
There’s a future. 
in strenuous wholeness.
(The Message)

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We awoke to this news this morning: Pvt. Isabella Gonzales, 19, of Carrollton, Texas, was killed in Jordan, where she was supporting a U.S. mission against the Islamic State group. (AP News) 

She wasn’t the only one killed. However, her age and the proximity of her hometown made the news stand out to these ears. 

The families of those who have died in armed conflict in recent days remind us again of how high a price is paid by the ordinary and good, by the selfless and kind, who seek to bring peace upon the earth. 

When King David told us to consider the blameless and observe the upright, I doubt he had in mind any 21st-century politicians. The time-bound buffoons who manipulate the gears of war today share the same dangerous arrogance that has destroyed lives and nations throughout history. Some things never change.

Sometimes armed conflict is necessary to protect innocent lives. Sometimes long patience and prepared defenses at rest are to be preferred. Some politicians play the short game. There are elections to win coming soon. Others never worry about elections. They never lose control until it is wrested from their hands by even more malicious warlords. 

God’s plan for peace that endures and edifies was delivered by one of the finest military leaders of all time. King David, a warrior of eternal prominence and significance, said to look at blameless, upright men and women, those who seek peace. 

The New Living Translation says, “Look at those who are honest and good.” The message paraphrases this verse by saying, “Keep your eye on the healthy soul, Scrutinize the straight life.” 

Peace is possible when we learn the strenuous wholeness of self-discipline, when we elect leaders with self-discipline, and when we ally ourselves with world leaders who likewise practice self-discipline.

Peace isn’t easy, but it’s possible. 

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I will seek peace as I grieve with those who have lost loved ones in armed conflict. 

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Our Father, peace is not possible in a world where war is attractive. Peace is not possible where power is preferred over patience. Peace is possible when we consider the blameless, observe the upright, and seek peace. Peace is possible when we look at those who are honest and good, when we keep our eyes on healthy souls, when we scrutinize the straight life, when we give preference to strenuous wholeness. Make us instruments of peace. Amen.