Certainly we cannot deny there are some armed conflicts in the Philippines or in the whole wide world. However, the question is: should there really be reason for such? We know at times, in isolated or extreme cases there is need or a call to arms, for the purpose of self-defense. Considering all the confusion, evacuations, chaos and suffering and loss of lives that result as side-effects of these armed conflicts, it is really much better to avoid them. Think it over: Can you pay for the value of one life? Jesus had already warned us through His instruction to Peter. “One of the followers of Jesus grasped his sword and drew it, he struck out at the high priest’s servant, and cut off his ear. Jesus then said, ‘Put your sword back, for all who draw the sword will die by the sword” (Mt. 26:52).
It’s a fact really. Many people die, not just accidentally because of accidental misfiring but also since the proliferation and escalation of firearms is a big temptation to violence. Just think it over. Life is the first right of man. And when people make a call to armed conflict or the use of deadly firearms, there are so many more casualties that could have been avoided. May we always remember God’s infallible word that can’t be mistaken nor lie. “Never repay evil with evil but let everyone see that you are interested only in the highest ideals. Do all you can to live at peace with everyone. Do not avenge yourselves, “Vengeance is mine. I will repay’ says the Lord.” “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him drink….Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good” (Rom. 12:18-21). Yes indeed. Remember the lessons of past history, the irreparable loss of so many lives. No wonder Benjamin Franklin had truly said: “There never was a good war or a bad peace.” Let’s follow the ideal described by St. Paul: “Love is humble, love is patient, love is forgiving” (1 Cor. 13:4-13).
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