Jesus lived a life and died a death committed to peace. In life, he taught his followers to offer creative non-violent responses to any violence inflicted against them. He offered forgiveness to those burdened with sin and guilt. He befriended the outcasts and marginal members of society. He confronted those who oppressed the poor and condemned those who practiced injustice. He showed love to his enemies and persecutors. When faced with torture and death, he did not call upon his followers to rise up in revolt. Rather, he accepted suffering willingly. His resurrection demonstrates the triumph of good over evil, of nonviolence over violence. If I claim to follow Jesus, I must commit myself to his way of peace. This is non-negotiable. Peace is at the heart of Jesus’ message and ministry. It is central to the Gospel of Christ. 

-Esther Epp-Tiessen