As I write this post, I’m watching the people of Egypt celebrating the end of nearly 30 years of autocratic rule of their country. President Mubarak resigned and left the country. People are setting off fireworks, waving flags, cheering, and singing in the streets of Cairo.
Despite brief isolated incidents of violence, there were no wide spread incidents of violence by protesters in 18 days. Though over 300 people were killed by anti-protesters, it took the peaceful protests of passionate and patient people to topple an unjust government.
We have seen Tunisia and Egypt change. Two countries in the Middle Eastern world champion a revolution. In Cairo, men, women, and children camped out for more than two weeks to protest. Christians and Muslims protected one another through this revolution.
The revolution was televised, but it was fueled by Facebook and Twitter. Through the power of the internet, protesters organized their movement. What other countries under the power of dictators will fall because of these powerful, peaceful, and successful protests? You are witnessing a new generation of people who want freedom.
The words of Jesus are so fitting on such a day as this: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9) The events today show that the bounds of peace can achieve far more than war ever could accomplish. Through peaceful means, God desires that we can live in freedom.
This is a lesson in which all people of the world are to heed. Peaceful movements can achieve positive change. God is at work in places like Tunisia and Egypt. The Kingdom Of God is at hand.
Will you join in prayer and action for people who want peace? Blessed are you who strive for peace.
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