Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Uniting our various entities provides an opportunity for us to truly become acquainted and connected with each other. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week exploring scriptures that talk about what we call “one-anothering.”
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… be at peace with one another. –Mark 9:50
Standing in line at the grocery store, I heard the customer in front of me grumbling to the cashier: “Everybody’s fighting with everyone! Why can’t people be civil anymore?”
It’s a fair question. In our world, our nation, our church and our individual lives, we struggle. Peace seems like a rare commodity as families argue, candidates accuse and nations wage war. Our organization is continuing to experience shifts and changes as we proceed to our goal of becoming one. Perhaps you are also experiencing conflict or uneasiness as we go through our growing pains.
When we think of peace, we often think of inner calm in the midst of challenging circumstances. However, “freedom from disputes” is one of the dictionary definitions of peace — and that may be exactly what Jesus was trying to convey. Be at peace with one another. Don’t disagree; don’t quarrel; don’t sow discontent. Avoid complaining and criticizing. Instead, choose to find ways to build bridges and sing harmony with each other.
Paul, in his biblical letters to the churches, offers practical advice on getting along. To the Romans, he wrote, “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor ….Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse .… Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.” Romans 12:10,14,18
Getting connected with others, learning their stories or points of view, goes a long way in creating an environment where peace can flourish. “Connect” is the first element of Loma Linda’s whole person care model, and it is the theme we will be exploring throughout the academic year across the entire organization.
When we have been wronged, the easiest path is often to fight back — if not physically, then with cutting words. We feel justified in our response because the other party was so out of line and they hurt us so deeply. These are some of our most challenging moments, when we must remember and follow Jesus, our Example. His words are simple and direct: be at peace with one another. Look for opportunities to make giants of other people.
Kathy McMillan, MA
Director of employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center