If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Romans 12:18
These past few days I had time to stand and ponder at a place that has great significance for the local Indigenous people. I do not, and cannot appreciate the ways that local Indigenous people see the same place. There is deep spiritual significance and also a narrative of pain resulting from the so called ‘development’ of the area. I wondered if I should be there at all!
There are many places in and beyond Australia where people place great significance on the landscape, environment and setting. Out of such places come ritual, stories, meaning and generational identity. When the importance of these things are not respected great pain is the result. People’s sense of self is deeply impacted. The ease with which we ignore such deep connections to land, place and environment as plans are made and ideas floated does not build peace or relationships.
Paul’s ethic in Romans 12 is striking and helpful. The expectations are realistic. One injunction is to live peaceably with all and it is a challenge to do so and he asks that it start with us! Yes. people’s perspectives, attitudes and opinions can be very hard to accept and understand. Paul asks us to live in such a way that harmony and understanding flows out of us being who we are.
We are not asked to be silent or wishy-washy. What is wrong must be named, and done so in a clear and straightforward manner, without demeaning the other’s character and personhood.
When we attack the other, and ridicule them we surrender the opportunity to live peaceably.
Rev John Gilmore
NCCA President