He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.

Isaiah 2:4

Fresno Pacific University has proven to be fertile ground throughout the many years of its existence; ground that produces an awareness of God’s presence, an understanding of the hope that is found in Jesus and an overwhelming sense of his mighty and perfect peace. Whether it’s through advising, teaching, mentoring, counseling or leading…seeds are planted, and the fruition becomes a source that can change a family, a community, a city and ultimately even the world. As we focus on this season of great anticipation, the hope found in Isaiah 2:4 comes alive. Scripture tells us that the Messiah, our Defender, will judge and settle disputes; the very thing that is used to divide person against person, family against family, nation against nation. In response, we will lay down that which was meant to destroy and instead turn it into that which can bring life and make room for great growth. This can only happen when we’re willing to simply graft a piece of our heart to someone else’s, much like Paul did with Onesimus when he stated that he was sending him back to Philemon, that is…he was “sending his very heart” (Philemon 1:12). Grafting allows two different plants to be joined so that they continue growing together; when we are truly able to lay down our weapons and join together with one another, we will be able to experience the healing power of hope and the true joy and peace that this season is all about.

Abba Father, Prince of Peace, grant to us the courage to trust that the battle is yours, not ours. May we instead be your hands and feet, and may your heart be grafted into ours so that we can be instruments of love as we share the healing power of hope to those we meet