A Better Way

Nº 374

September 30, 2025

Kindness has converted more sinners than zeal, eloquence, or learning. Frederick W. Faber

God miraculously thwarted the military plans of the Syrians and struck their entire army with blindness. Instead of a battle the enemy soldiers were led into the stronghold of Samaria, the capital of Israel.

Once inside the city and surrounded by the Israelite army, the Israelite king wanted to slaughter his helpless enemy. Instead, Elisha commanded the King to treat them well. “So he prepared a great feast, and when they had eaten and drunk, he sent them away. . . and the Syrians did not come again on raids into the land of into Israel.” (2 Kings 6:23)

What warfare could not accomplish, kindness achieved.

We tend to think that human might and overwhelming force will rule the day. We assume that obliterating our enemies will ensure peace. But Elisha understood a better path forward. His kindness secured peace for his generation.

Jesus said it this way, “love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:27) When annoying, angry attacks come our way, the Christlike response is to love, do good, bless, and pray for those who try to be our enemies.

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin