History is filled with conflict from the Old Testament up through present times. Conflict can cause problems but it can cause progress as well. Joseph’s story in the Old Testament was full of conflict. As he was in conflict with his brothers, this led to his separation from them and being sold into slavery, and then being falsely imprisoned. From this low point, there was progress. Joseph went on to interpret the dreams of the Pharaoh, rising to a position of great authority in Egypt.
But conflict continued.
Are we in conflict today? We are like Adam in enmity and conflict with God. Jesus tells us to love our enemies. His response on the cross is ‘Distinctly Christian’. What does it mean to be distinctly Christian in the world today? Let us rely on Christ and turn away from hate – may we be distinctly Christian as we respond to our conflicts in love as Jesus would have us do!