 Deacon's Beacon . . .
by Jan Brown, Deacon
(from October 2000 Tidings)
A Story of Megiddo
The new Adult Education video series begins with a study of Megiddo, a city founded in
the north portion of Israel during the early time of trading among the surrounding
nations. Megiddo was directly in the path of the trade routes from the east going to and
from Egypt. The area was a necessary defense site for the Israelites.
Megiddo also overlooks the area known as Armageddon, a place where it is felt the final
battle of the world will take place. Today's thought is that Armageddon will be a
spiritual battle rather than a physical battle. However, looking at that plain from the
site of Megiddo, it is quite easy to picture all the nations of the world in battle.
The other day as I was reading a little book entitled, "Reflections
on the Run: Daily Meditations for Faith, Growth, and Commitment," by Charles B.
Fulton, Jr. (an old friend of many of us in this area). One of the reflections is entitled
"True Peace." It begins by quoting the Scripture Micah 4:3:
"They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning
hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war
anymore."
Pacifists throughout all ages have decided that the above passage of Scripture
is an answer to world conflict and wars. However, they do not read the following verses as
a foundation for peace. These Old Testament verses indicate that a prerequisite to peace
is many nations coming into the presence of the Lord. Also, the New Testament indicates
that as nations come to Christ there is peace. Where there is no Christ Jesus, there is no
peace.
We must read the whole text and perceive through the eyes of the Holy Spirit
what God the Father has for us who follow His Son. How can we hasten the fulfillment of
these prophetic words? How can we bring the nations to the Lord and the church? The
"nations" start with the people next to us — next door, next office, next
aisle, next pew. By our word and example we can spread the gospel of peace.
Joyfully,
Jan
See Jan's previous articles:
 
 Reflections
on the Run :
Daily Meditations for Faith, Growth and Commitment
by Charles B. Fulton, Jr.
Do you feel as though life is speeding by? Does it seem that
your soul gets neglected in the constant struggle to manage schedule and task? And yet you
yearn for a deeper, growing spiritual life? Reflections on the Run is a
beautiful and uplifting collection of lessons discovered by looking at ordinary life
through expectant eyes. These short readings, designed for daily use, will inspire you to
learn, laugh and be still before God. Ideal for youth and personal devotions, sermons and
lessons, Reflections on the Run is also a great gift for anyone who wants to be challenged
or who needs encouragement.
Paperback, 129 pages. List price: $8.49. Buy
now.
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