For in every age it has been the tyrant, the oppressor, and the exploiter who has wrapped himself in the cloak of patriotism, or religion, or both to deceive and overawe the people. from Canton, OH anti-war speech (1918)
The story of Exodus begins with powerful Pharaoh's fear over a Great Replacement. "Look, the Israelite people are more numerous and more powerful than we" (Exodus 1:9). In the face of changing demographics, the tyrant turned first to violence and genocide.
A test of a people is how it behaves toward the old. It is easy to love children. Even tyrants and dictators make a point of being fond of children. But the affection and care for the old, the incurable, the helpless are the true gold mines of a culture.
All over this magnificent world, God calls us to extend his kingdom of shalom-peace and wholeness—of justice, of goodness, of compassion, of caring, of sharing, of laughter, of joy, of reconciliation. God is transfiguring the world right this very moment through us...
When I despair, I remember that the way of truth and love has always won. There may be tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they can seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall. Think of it: always.