The peace process in the Middle East is in meltdown. Iraq, one year on from the invasion, is in crisis.  We see violence breeding more violence; escalating spirals of revenge and retaliation. How can the ceaseless cycle of death, maiming and destruction be stopped?

The Old Testament law sought to prevent such escalation. It set carefully prescribed limits on the level of retaliation – ‘life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise.’ [Exodus 21:24]  No more, no less!

The teaching of Jesus on this specific point was far more radical –

‘I tell you … love your enemies … turn the other cheek … do good to those who hate you … forgive 70 x 7 times.’

[Matthew 5:38-39; 44. Luke 6:27-36; Matthew 18:21-22]

It is interesting to recall that Jesus lived in a Middle Eastern country, Israel, which in his time was occupied by the most powerful military nation in the world. The Roman occupation was as deeply resented and hated in 1^st Century Israel as the American and British in Iraq today. In spite of this, Jesus focussed on mercy, forgiveness and love. His message was, ‘Don’t take revenge at all – leave that to God.’  The message was picked up by the early Church – ‘Do not repay anyone evil for evil … If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. … Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.’ [Paul’s Letter to the Romans 12:17-21]

How different our world would look today if we were able to put this teaching of Jesus into practice.  As individuals we may feel powerless to affect the destiny of nations, but we do have an influence where we live: in our family, among our friends, neighbours and workmates. How different would our personal relationships look if we were to apply the word of Jesus to them? Is there in your life a cycle of tit-for-tat retaliation or unforgiveness which it is in your power to break?  Is there a damaged friendship or relationship which needs healing?  Even, or perhaps especially, if you think the blame lies with them and not with you.  Is it time to act; to make the first move; to make the little bit of the world in which you live a better, more peaceful place?

Make a difference!