One of the beautiful things about a slow start to a Sunday morning is the opportunity to let your mind wander.  Explore thoughts and feelings long neglected.  This morning, my mind turned to the beloved church hymns of my grandfather.  “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.”  “Onward Christian Soldiers.”  Every Sunday morning, he would sing them with all his passion and soul.  A loving tribute to the God who now holds him close.

This morning, I was also confronted by more news of terror in the headlines.  More bloodshed.  More violence.

Then my mind in all of its relaxed wandering connected the two.  We have an opportunity as one people of the world.  An opportunity to act not as Christian Soldiers, Muslim Soldiers, White Soldiers, Black Soldiers, but rather as soldiers confronting the sadness and fear of the world with one simple weapon that we all possess, love.  Yes, love your neighbor, as yourself.  Try to understand their pain.  Try to share your love.  Show others the simple joy of a love filled world.

Live your life full of love.  Care for each other.  Build those around you up.  It is through this mutual love that we will become strong.  Strong as a nation.  Strong as a world.  Strong enough to show others that love is the most powerful weapon of all.