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International Day of Peace
Minute for Mission
So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift” (Matt. 5:23–24).
As Christians, our calling to faithfulness is rooted in the Gospel message of peace and reconciliation. We are not alone in our desire for peace. Communities around the world share this hope.
Recognizing this, in 1981 the United Nations declared the third Tuesday of September as International Day of Peace, which coincides with the opening of the UN General Assembly. In setting this day, the UN said that the International Day of Peace should be devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples. In 2002, the UN reaffirmed this intention and designated September 21 as the International Day of Peace.
And what if for only this day, every person, community, and nation-state made a commitment to focus on peace? It might seem a foolish notion, but surely this world will never know peace unless people have the courage to risk such an act. Christ invites us to this risky task, reminding
us that in order to make peace with God, we first need to be reconciled to our brothers and sisters. To receive the gift of peace, we need to share it. As you move through this day, share the gift of peace with someone who needs it from you the most.
—Elder Sara Pottschmidt Lisherness, director, Compassion, Peace, and Justice, General Assembly Mission Council
PC(USA) General Assembly Staff
Carolyn Pressley, BOP
Simon Puche, GAMC
Elder Michael Purintun, GAMC
Holy God, you are the author of all peace. Through Jesus Christ you offer the gift of peace. Help me this day and each day to share this gift, trusting that by doing so your peace will grow. Amen.
Ps. 57, 145 Ps. 85, 47
2 Kings 5:1–19
1 Cor. 4:8–21; Matt. 5:21–26
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