Peace In Northern Ireland?

Famed Irish preacher and politician, Ian Paisley could be the very man to bring about a path to peace in N.Ireland, the Washington Post reports.

Those familiar with Paisley's preaching know that he is an uncompromising and unapologetic supporter of total separation from Rome, being the seat of world catholicism. As a politician, he is known as "Dr. No", for his unwillingness to budge on any issues of conscience or expedience.

Now before him, however; is the very real chance at lasting peace in the war torn land of IRA terrorists and their protestant counterparts. The chance lies in a new local government made up of both Protestants and catholics, charged with governing their own local districts. In a country that has lost over 3,500 to terrorist activities in the last 36 years...this opportunity for peace is long over due.

But will he compromise? Should he?

Martin Luther once said, "Peace if possible, truth at any rate." With serious questions about the disarmament of the catholic Irish Republican Army, another famous "NO" may be in order from Dr. Paisley. A hastily composed and compromised assembly of falsehoods and 'good intentions' has no hope of spelling the kind of lasting peace that is needed in N. Ireland.

Christians should pray for peace, both home and abroad -- but never venture to compromise the gospel for the sake of peace or prosperity. And oft remember that Luke 2:14 did not say, "Glory to God in the highest, and peace on earth, goodwill to men" , but rather "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill to men". We can never have peace on earth until Christ returns and restores it, but we can and do (as born-again believers) have peace between us and God through Jesus Christ our Lord: Colossians 1:20 "And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven."

Take a cue from Dr. Paisley and say "No" "Never" and "Absolutely Not" to compromise, and seek after the peace which Christ alone can provide.