Thursday November 23, 2017
The meaning of the name Jerusalem has been variously suggested as “dwelling of peace,” “foundation of peace,” “possession of peace,” et cetera. Whatever the exact phrase is, the word “peace” is integral to the meaning of the city. Thus, it is an irony that Jesus weeps over this city of peace for its lack of familiarity with the ways of peace! Destruction awaits her because of her failure to recognize the time and the visitation of the Prince of Peace. Even today, the city of Jerusalem remains a prisoner of violence, division, and mutual distrust among people. Peace is a stranger in its own dwelling.
The same danger can happen to our inner cities as well. We Christians carry the name of Christ in our baptismal labels. Would it be possible that, given our way of life, Christ could be missing from our title as Christians? Would Jesus weep over the lack of Christian-ness in us? If it is true, then the salt has lost its saltiness (Matt 5:13).
Let us pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Let us pray for Christ to be at the center of our Christian living.
