The followers of Christ have been called to peace. … And they must not only have peace but also make it. And to that end they renounce all violence and tumult. In the cause of Christ nothing is to be gained by such methods. … His disciples keep the peace by choosing to endure suffering themselves rather than inflict it on others. They maintain fellowship where others would break it off. They renounce hatred and wrong. In so doing they over-come evil with good, and establish the peace of God in the midst of a world of war and hate.

-Dietrich Bonhoeffer 1906-1945
The Cost of Discipleship

• Light a candle to remember Christ’s presence with you.
• Sit five to fifteen minutes in silent meditation paying attention to the deep breath.
• Hear God calling you to peace, true shalom: contentment, completeness, wholeness, well being and harmony.
• What in your life is leading you toward peace, true shalom.
• On the contrary, what in your life is leading you away from peace, true shalom?
• What do you desire to change?
• What in this world is leading you away from peace, true shalom?
• How is  God calling you to overcome evil with good?
• What is the message for you?
• Give thank for this time in prayer seeking peace/shalom and for any new insights you have received.
• Share as you feel led in the reply box below.

Revised Common Lectionary Readings for Sunday, January 22, 2012, the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B 
Jonah 3:1-5, 10
Psalm 62:5-12
1 Corinthians 7:29-31
Mark 1:14-20

If you use these prayers in other groups, please give credit to author.

Permission to use in not-for-profit settings The Rev. Lil Smith, M.Div., DASD