Diplomacy itself is often scorned. The words of Jesus are thought to be impractical except when applied to personal relationships. Even in those circumstances many who call themselves Christian believers consider the teachings of Jesus to be impractical. Suggest that the words of Jesus can be a practical guide for diplomats, politicians and soldiers, and be laughed at. But the Old Fool is used to being laughed at.
As I write, the “talking heads” on TV are reporting events in the Ukraine. How would Jesus promote peace in that part of the world? Not with military power. I believe Jesus would say that if the people of Crimea want to be a part of Russia, and if Russia wants control of Crimea, the Ukrainians should let them have what they want. But someone asks, what about the non-Russian minority in Crimea who prefer to be a part of the Ukraine? What would Jesus say to them? The Old Fool thinks Jesus would tell everyone to love their neighbors and do good to them, and thus promote peace.
This Old Fool contends that the words of Jesus are the most practical words ever spoken. Believing in such things as the virgin birth and the miracles of Jesus may be beneficial, but Christians, politicians, diplomats, and the common people of the world neglect his way and his words at the peril of neighborly peace. His way of life is the light of the world and the savor of the earth’s salt.
