Being Christlike in Conflict

Last Sunday, a congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was attacked in Michigan. Police eventually killed the attacker in a shoot-out.

This is what I heard as I prepared myself to attend worship in my own congregation. My first thought went to methods of defending myself if I were met with such violence that day.

My second thought was a line from the handbook used by members of the church:

Another story of our people then came to mind:

Alma 23:7

I left for church a few minutes later, carrying a bag that contained my keys, a handful of cough drops, and my wallet.

A couple of days later, I came across a post from another denomination:

Heat rose in my chest in response to these words. It felt like a call to fight for myself and those I care for. It felt good, and it made sense!

But.

Something did not feel quite right.

I sent the post to my mom, asking what she thought of it, and her response rang with truth:

“I understand where he is coming from, but can you imagine any of the apostles saying this?”¹

I could not.

The next day, I found an article stating that members of the church had created a way to donate to the family of the man who carried out the attack.

And then a personal account from one of the victim’s family members who was there during the attack and made eye contact with the shooter:

Quote taken from NBC News.

All this to say that Jesus has been among us this week, touching hearts and healing souls in his role as the Prince of Peace.

“The Savior’s message is clear: His true disciples build, lift, encourage, persuade, and inspire—no matter how difficult the situation. True disciples of Jesus Christ are peacemakers.”²

1. Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe that God has called a prophet and twelve apostles to guide us today just as they did when Christ was on the earth.

2. Russell M. Nelson: Peacemakers Needed