Principles – «Peace on the Earth» – 7/1/2017

   Today, Eastern Christians are celebrating the Nativity. Nevertheless, the incidents that Egypt has witnessed lately including bombing of El-Botroseya Church in addition to the violent attacks and murders executed around the world are reflecting its thirst for peace.

   By the advent of the Nativity, the eternal chant proclaims “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” which reminds us of the prophets’ words in the Old Testament that this Baby is the “Prince of Peace”. Jesus Christ has also brought the message of peace to all the weary when He said, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

On Earth Peace

   Indeed, the world is in dire need for peace: the Nativity’s message. However, we should think how we keep that peace. Murder and destruction are executed by the weak who did not understand the true meaning of this life. Life in its essence carries the message of peace to all people. On the other hand, death is the byproduct of violence and destruction.

   Peace is asserted when people cast hatred out of their hearts and sow seeds of love instead; when they realize that their life mission is to erect and build. Envy and hatred do not bring out anything but death and loss of peace. It reminds me of the scene of Cain murdering his brother when God said to him “What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood cries out to Me from the ground.”

   The outcome was that the killer led a vagabond and insecure life till his death.Peace is found when people approach to understand one another, try to make others happy as they realize they are all brethren in humanity. Hence, they will experience the true essence of peace and happiness.

   Peace spreads when man knows God and becomes closer to Him so that he would learn that God “makes peace in His high places”; “forms the light, creates darkness and makes peace.” He would understand that God blesses His people by granting them peace and gives His blessings to the peace makers, “Blessed are the peace makers”.

   If we truly wish that peace prevails, we should take steps toward it. Mahatma Gandhi says, “If we want to reach real peace, we should start educating children”; educate them how to love, understand and accept the different others and that the true way to see God is in holding onto goodness, mercy and justice.

   Many happy returns to all of us; we pray that peace would be bestowed upon Egypt: our beloved country, its people along with the whole world.

General Bishop

Head of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center