We can’t be sure, of course, what got Trump to push Netanyahu into a cease fire deal – possibly the really stupid attack in Qatar, but at least the bombing for now has stopped and supplies are coming into Gaza. But it’s not peace, nor is it justice.
How does one measure the elusive thing called justice? For some n Gaza and the West Bank, it means the ability to return to those old homes they were driven out of in 1948; for others it means a viable two state solution with new leadership that is not corrupt. But the justice must be restorative, for retribution is not justice.
The 20-point plan envisions a nonpartisan and “nonpoliticized” governing body for Gaza and refers to the “aspirations” of the Palestinian people. But with the rapid expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, those words may ring hollow. And even as Trump spoke of the three Abrahamic faiths living together, various factions, at least in Gaza, began targeting each other in a struggle for power. Even Jeremiah would be appalled. How do we create peace, not to mention justice?
Prayer for the Day
Resonating in our ears, the words of your prophets, O God,
Isaiah, Amos, and Micah, call for more than laying down of arms;
Hoping beyond hope, we listen to the cries for true justice,
A justice that gives people their land and villages without fear.
When will the wolf lie down with the lamb, we ask,
When will each person respect and care for the other?
In the name of the One who calls us to peace with justice,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Among individuals, as with nations, respect for the rights of others is peace.
Benito Juarez, indigenous president of Mexico (1806-1872)
If you want peace, work for justice.
Pope Paul VI (1897-1978)
Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness abide in the fruitful field,
The effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness,
Quietness and trust forever.
My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings,
In quiet resting places. The forest will disappear completely,
And the city will utterly be laid low.
Happy will you be who sow beside every stream,
Who let the ox and donkey range freely.
Isaiah 32: 16-20