Is there still hope for tranquility?
Lebanon, a country with a tumultuous history, has been grappling with cycles of war and conflict since the civil war (1975-1990), the 2006 war, and ongoing violence since 2019, including economic collapse, the coronavirus pandemic, Beirut port blast, and the current situation. This article, first published in Evangelical Focus and Middle Eastern Perspectives, explores how love and the Christian faith are playing a crucial role in fostering trust between different factions and parties in Lebanon.
At the Arab Baptist Theological Seminary (ABTS), approximately 200 individuals have found refuge so far. Bassem Melki, the director of the Non-Formal Training and Peacemaking Department at ABTS, outlines spiritual frameworks for addressing conflict and promoting peace from a Christian perspective in his article on the ABTS blog. While I do not have direct access to Melki's specific article, I can share common themes that align with his approach.
- Reconciliation as a Core Christian Value Christianity deeply emphasizes reconciliation, both between individuals and with God. The belief that Christ’s sacrifice bridges the gap between humanity and God serves as a model for believers to seek forgiveness and restore broken relationships.
- Love and Forgiveness Central to Christian ethics is the command to love one’s neighbor and to forgive others as God forgives (Matthew 22:39; Matthew 6:14-15). This encourages moving beyond grudges and enmity towards compassion, understanding, and peace.
- Prayer and Dependence on the Holy Spirit Christians are encouraged to engage in prayer for guidance, healing, and transformation during conflict (Philippians 4:6-7). The Holy Spirit is seen as a source of wisdom and strength to act peaceably and justly.
- Peacemaking as a Beatitude Jesus blesses "the peacemakers" (Matthew 5:9), indicating that active efforts toward peace are valued and spiritually blessed. This includes seeking justice, dialogue, and nonviolent resolutions.
- Community and Mutual Accountability Christian communities are called to bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2), fostering environments where conflicts can be addressed openly with support and accountability rather than avoidance or escalation.
- Justice and Mercy Peace is often framed not just as absence of conflict but as the presence of justice and mercy (Micah 6:8). Addressing the root causes of conflict such as injustice, inequality, and broken systems is part of the spiritual mandate.
In times of chaos, receiving direction and purpose from God is key for survival and finding the energy to face fresh darkness. The gospel addresses the root of all evil, which is man's pride. Many people in Lebanon have experienced displacement, loss, traumas, and a quest for survival due to these conflicts. We are asked to manage our thoughts and hearts to honor Christ, as stated in 2 Corinthians 10:5 and Proverbs 4:23.
For Lebanese Christians, faith remains a source of strength in the face of uncertainty. Churches across Lebanon have been central to humanitarian efforts, offering hospitality, aid, and solidarity to all communities, regardless of religion. Peace for Christians involves a deep trust in God, reconciliation with God and self, and a sense of purpose that comes from God. The Christian belief in peace is not contingent on the absence of war, but is grounded in the conviction that peace is a path of sacrifice, love, and relentless hope. Love is restoring the image of God in many and bringing hope back to mankind.
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