Peace-breaking

8 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because making hasty assumptions and anger do not produce the righteousness that God desires. This is the cause of most of your quarrels and relational breakdowns.

So instead of gossip, inspire others with the good that has been done. Instead of speeding into slander, take a slow walk by assuming the best and asking (about) the rest. Instead of playing into the devil's hand and accusing others, take the person aside one on one, where there's no pressure, and ask them about their side of the story.

Take the lead from God's Word and his living Spirit within you and if you lack wisdom, ask Him, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

Peace-faking

Nevertheless, it is most concerning to hear that no controversy beyond COVID-19 has been heard for a long time. At the same time, people are simmering under the surface with frustration, depression, and even bitterness and despair. What this means is that you do not know how to raise difficult issues, and you are pretending there is peace when there is no peace.

Everything is carefully orchestrated and controlled so that no opportunity is given to burst the veneer of peace and order–and for what? So that you can go back to the same kind of lukewarm service pre-COVID? So that we'll try to feel comfortable when we're not? This is like someone who listened to others, and after listening, goes away and immediately forgets what he heard. But whoever hears the Word intently and does it–not forgetting or ignoring it–will be blessed in what they do.

Peace-making

When, as mature believers, we can talk about social, political and religious matters as often as required, with confidence that our views will be heard, respected, and considered–then, and only then will we be able to create a peaceful community. Where people assume the best because they know we all excel at misunderstanding. Where young and old can ask questions, men and women, poor and rich: equally respected. Where all are eager to learn from others first, putting their own perspectives lower. Where we see broken friendships as sin, and establishing mediators and counsellors as much as small group leaders.

Faking peace is much harder when we live physically close to each other. As it is, if you are having a bad day, you do not show up, or because most church gatherings are highly scripted, you do show up–and leave quickly before anybody asks too many questions. But living together brings everyone into the light, and unveils our masks, and enables and encourages much more godliness.