"Rethinking the Police" (Daniel Reinhardt)

TITLE: Rethinking the Police: An Officer's Confession and the Pathway to Reform
AUTHOR: Daniel Reinhardt
PUBLISHER: Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2023, (224 pages).
 

The general perception of the Police force has taken a beating these days. From Michael Brown to Breonna Taylor, Daniel Prude to George Floyd, instances of police brutality on minority communities are becoming far too common. Those who claim that the issue is due to individual racists will have to explain why in 2023, five African American policemen killed Tyre Nichols, a black. According to author Daniel Reinhardt, the problem is beyond individuals. It is embedded in a system that nourishes systemic discrimination. In other words, if the perpetrators are guilty, the environment that breeds them is worse. As a 24-year-veteran of the police force, Reinhardt knows the system from the academy to street patrols. The question remains. If law enforcement agencies, courts, the federal agencies are aware of the problem, then why is there so little progress for better policing? Reinhardt puts his finger on the lack of changes from the inside out. With so much attention on external factors, internal factors have unwittingly been minimized. These factors refer to culture, worldview, and "implicit social structures." He goes on to describe the three key cultural factors: "Social distance," "Unchecked power," and "social structures." 

"A Basic Guide to the Just War Tradition" (Eric Patterson)

TITLE: A Basic Guide to the Just War Tradition: Christian Foundations and Practices
AUTHOR: Eric Patterson
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2023, (176 pages).
 

In wars, there are generally no winners. All parties involved would have suffered losses regardless of the numbers. How can anyone quantify suffering? How do we measure the emotional trauma we bring back home after a war? How can we even justify the loss of a single human being? The costs of war go far more than mere soldiers and machinery. It involves many conflicts ranging from ethical dilemmas to mental distress. At a theological level, making justification for wars could be breaking the Sixth Commandment in some way. How then can we justify any war? CS Lewis believes that it is a Christian duty to fight evil. In order to preserve peace, order, and justice, states need to be vigilant against evil, for doing nothing is worse. According to author Eric Patterson, a just war is basically a means to achieving peace and justice. Ironically, just war is a quest for peace. Governments need to uphold their duty to protect and defend their people, and sometimes this means going to war. This book explains, describes, and defends the use of just war in the quest for peace and upholding justice. 

Chapter One defines what just war is and what it is not. Going back to the roots of WWI and WWII, Patterson uncovers the deficiencies of a pacifist or non-aligned policy that emboldened countries like Germany to invade other territories. The just war foundational premise is: "legitimate political authorities have a responsibility to protect and defend those in their charge (just cause) and should do so with restraint in motivation and action (right intent)." Once the decision has been made, the next set of criteria is about "military necessity, proportionality, and discrimination." Just war advocates include people like Augustine, Aquinas, Calvin, Luther, and Wesley. 

"From Pandemic to Renewal" (Chris Rice)

TITLE: From Pandemic to Renewal
AUTHOR: Chris Rice
PUBLISHER: Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2023, (240 pages).
 

Without a doubt, the pandemic has changed the world in more ways than we know. For the first time worldwide, people see lockdowns and travel quarantines. Many go for mandatory vaccinations. Masks are required in public places. Corporations tell people to work from home. Even churches have to go virtual. As the world reels from two years of pandemic lifestyles, many no longer recognize the normal they once knew. Many businesses like restaurants and retail have suffered to the point of totally shutting down. Churches too have seen their numbers plummet to the point where formerly regular members no longer attend physical church. On the flip side, there have been some positive post-pandemic developments as well. Some experience the freedom of working from home without compromising their work productivity. They testify of better work-life balance. They also benefitted from turning "transit time" into profitable work time. Author Chris Rice looks at the whole situation to bring us three critical insights. First, we gain a deeper insight into our inner struggles. The pandemic has become a form of X-Ray to expose the things we do not usually see. Stress and emotional challenges take on a new dimension. Bipartisan politics worsen by the increased use of social media. Digital platforms take on a new level of significance. People brace themselves to enter a new world never seen before. Secondly, we are connected far beyond our shores. We see a deeper interconnected future about how events far away can impact us up close and personal. Like the way covid spreads from Asia to America, and to the rest of the world, it is no longer possible to quarantine any potential problems. No longer can we simply mind our own business or think we do not need the rest of the world. We are more connected and dependent than we think. Thirdly, the pandemic has opportunities for us to build upon. This is where the majority of the book will be centering upon. Rather than be shaken up negatively by the pandemic, why not re-adjust our sails positively? With this paradigm shift, the author sets out to do just that. This book covers the eight pathways from pandemic to renewal across various realms, covering economic, moral, social, political, religious, and several other aspects. 

"Peaceful Discipline: Story Teaching, Brain Science & Better Behavior" (Sarah R. Moore)

TITLE: Peaceful Discipline: Story Teaching, Brain Science & Better Behavior
AUTHOR: Sarah R. Moore
PUBLISHER: St Paul's, MN: Beaver's Pond Press, 2022, (292 pages).
 

Taking care of children is challenging. Disciplining them is even harder. For some, it is utterly impossible. Ask any parent and they will quickly tell you about their agonizing stories. For many parents, this will be unsurprisingly familiar, especially when children misbehave or refuse to follow simple instructions. While many in the East will not hesitate to use spanking or some form of physical punishment to instill proper discipline, many of their counterparts in the West prefer the use of verbal and firm instructions. Somehow, the latter might admit privately how they wish they could "hammer" their kids when they are at their wits' end. Author Sarah Moore confesses how her anger had taught her to be gentle, which provides the starting point for this very book: Using non-physical strategies to inculcate better behavior. She calls this process "Peaceful Discipline." Interestingly, her anger rose not from her own kids but from her pediatrician! Rather than to let anger wear her down, she decides to channel this into learning moments. That is her basis for "story teaching" that helps children do four things: Observe, Listen, Research, and Try. She shares about the common storytelling strategies adopted in many cultures around the world. The reason why such strategies work is simply because it is how human beings learn and behave. She takes an additional step to assert how story-teaching is different from story-telling. The former is preventative (preparing), in the moment (grounding), and restorative (redeeming). 

"Holy Disruption" (Tracy S. Daub)

TITLE: Holy Disruption: Discovering Advent in the Gospel of Mark
AUTHOR: Tracy S. Daub
PUBLISHER: Louisville, KY: Westminster John-Knox Press, 2022, (100 pages).
 

Advent is just a few weeks away. With lower temperatures and lesser sunlight in the Northern Hemisphere, the mood is set for quieter and gloomier weather. The gospels give us various dimensions to the nativity story. Most of our narratives about the birth of Jesus come from the gospel of Matthew and Luke. Instead of birth narratives, John provides us with a theological rendition of the birth of Jesus. Mark does not give us any information about baby Jesus, only some passing information about his mother and his ministry. Herein lies the challenge. How then do we discover Advent in the gospel of Mark? Author Tracy Daub shows us five ways to do just that.

1. Anticipating the Coming of Jesus
2. Peace on Earth in Christ Jesus
3. Belonging to Christ
4. The revelation of the Messiah
5. The Hope of Immanuel: God with Us

Daub starts the Advent preparation early by reflecting on Mark 13, the "little apocalypse" chapter. She unpacks the contexts of the first century and compares them with our existing world.

"Praying with the Enemy" (Steven T. Collis)

TITLE: Praying with the Enemy
AUTHOR: Steven T. Collis
PUBLISHER: Salt Lake City, UT: Shadow Mountain Publishing, 2022, (384 pages).
 

Flying over North Korea with Napalm explosives. Near-death encounters with Chinese snipers and North Korean soldiers. Staying alive in terrible pits as a Prisoner of War. Missing in Action. Escaping. Challenge of faith in the midst of the horrors of war. Conflicting philosophies. Deceit. Military strategies, and more. Three countries involved in a devastating war that has divided families across the Korean Peninsula. Three different men from each country. These and many more form a pulsating action-packed novel filled with multiple twists and turns. The three protagonists in this novel are Captain Ward Millar (aka Ward), Kim Jae Pil (aka Jae Pil), and to a lesser extent, Lieutenant Kang. All of them are able to speak and communicate in English! The chapters begin by alternating their stories, beginning with Ward as a pilot flying over North Korea during the Korean War in 1951. When his plane crashed landed on enemy territory, though he managed to survive, he broke his ankles making it difficult to even escape. 

Jae Pil's story begins with him being drafted to serve in the Communist Army. His family were Christians. The communist party's ideals were constantly at odds with what he and his family believed. His family mission was to build a church and to enable people to worship properly without fear. Unfortunately, living in a land with a godless ideology makes their mission difficult. These constant struggles present Jae Pil with a dilemma to choose between his country or his faith; the Communist Party or God. Eventually, at great risks to his own life, he decides to do what he could to escape from the communists. That begins a gripping journey from a place he felt enslaved to his desired place of freedom. Alas! Even the land of South Korea is not kind to a defector from North Korea. 

"What are Christians For?" (Jake Meador)

TITLE: What Are Christians For?: Life Together at the End of the World
AUTHOR: Jacob R. Meador
PUBLISHER: Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2021, (192 pages).
 

In a self-driven, self-seeking, and self-centered world, it is common to ask questions about one's identity, purpose, and significance. Who am I? What am I called to do? What is my purpose in life? These are all familiar questions about the self. What if we take some time to think about our role in the community we are in? What if we take it even further to think about our role as believers in Christ? What if more of us recognize that the individual is incomplete without the whole body of believers? What if we begin not with the self in mind, but with the people, the very people that God has called us to love and to be a part of? That changes everything. In a powerful reminder of how interdependent we truly are, author Jake Meador shares with us the simple but powerful effects of simply being faithful to our calling no matter where we are. Called the "whole life approach," Meador draws our attention to the need for believers to be active in social justice and everyday spirituality. Like how Father Ted played his part in supporting the persecuted during the apartheid in South Africa, or how Frederick Douglass helped battle slavery in the 19th Century. Why are not more people stepping up to do the good that they ought to do? Why are we not seeing more of such radical practices in our modern world? Why are we increasingly disenfranchised with society, with political divisions, and isolated? Meador uses the title of the book as a veiled challenge to all Christians to do something about authentic discipleship. This book is a guide to help us understand the reasons why we fail to live up to the expectations of our callings; to remind us once again of our need for interdependency, and the courage we need to step up. 

"365 Ways to Find Peace" (edited by Marcus Braybrooke)

TITLE: 365 Ways to Find Peace: Meditations & Inspirations
AUTHOR: Edited by Marcus Braybrooke
PUBLISHER: London, UK: Watkins, 2019, (208 pages).

Beauty contestants spout it. World leaders talk about it. Social activists display placards for it. Writers pen their hopes for it. World peace. This book opens with a promise to help readers find peace or some semblance of peace in this often troubled and tumultuous world. Its basic premise is that we all need reminders that "deep stillness and tranquility" is possible. So the author combs widely for snippets and ways to find such peace. With this search for tranquility the main purpose, editor Marcus Braybrooke draws inspiration from multiple religions, philosophers, sacred books, poems, parables, songs, hymns, selections from cultures that range from East and West. All in all, there are 365 writings. Some are as short as a single line while others are as long as a full page.

The 365 selections are subdivided into three categories:

1. The Centre of Being;
2. The Inner Circle of Love;
3. The Outer Circle of Spirit.

Part One is based on the premise that self-love is a vital foundation for relationships. Admitting that it may seem to be self-centered at first, Braybrooke asserts that it brings about a stability that is needed for the building of love outward. The selections are based on elements of true self; self-esteem; inner strength; stillness; inner wisdom; giving; thankfulness; attentiveness; humility; simplicity; wonder; etc. These are the virtues for cultivating a being that is secure and tranquil. Part Two moves on to the Inner Circle of Love, which covers topics of empathy; selflessness; compassion; friendship; family; etc. There is a bigger element of community and loving others. Part Three  is about "Outer Circle of Spirit" which moves beyond the physical realm toward the transcendental.

My Thoughts
For an eclectic collection of works from such a diverse group of people and perspectives, it is hoped that some of these would touch the general reader searching for meaning and peace in their lives. Some readers might try to go through the book thinking that they would find peace. Not all the works could do that. Maybe a few snippets of inspiration might help settle our restless minds. Also, it depends on the readers' personal faith and background. It could be uncomfortable for those who hold a different religious perspective from some of the contributors in this book. For that, I would urge readers not to give up on the book entirely. There are good things to learn from, even though some may not meet our expectations. If something works, then its good. If not, simply move on and not feel too troubled about it.

What is helpful for me is to recognize the diversity of views with regard to the words peace and tranquility. I am aware of the many different definitions of what true peace is. For starters, just see this work as an effort to bridge the gaps between different perspectives, religious thought, and desire for world peace. There is no one size fits all and this book definitely didn't purport to play that role. The hope is that in the reading of these book, if one could find a way toward the peace that one seeks, it would have been a worthy read.

Rating: 3.5 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book has been provided courtesy of Watkins Publishing and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"Therefore I Have Hope" (Cameron Cole)

TITLE: Therefore I Have Hope: 12 Truths That Comfort, Sustain, and Redeem in Tragedy
AUTHOR: Cameron Cole
PUBLISHER: Chicago, IL: Crossway Publishers, 2018, (208 pages).

What is the worst thing that could happen to any one of us? Maybe it's losing a job or flunking out of school. Perhaps it is foreclosure of our house or the loss of our precious car. Far more than any of these things, it is about losing a loved one. Tragedy has a profound impact on our emotions. It could render us unable to function normally or to even go about the most basic of routines. We become another person in every way. Tragedies can affect anyone. From the joy of seeing the conversation of their son to the trauma of seeing him die, emotions can wreak havoc to our soul. How do we sustain a narrative of hope amid such trying times? Author Cameron Cole highlights truth that many of us know but refuse to see. He writes as follows:

"How could a person survive if one did not know the gospel? How could one subsist if one did not accept the sovereignty of God? How would one function if one did not know the possibility of joy in suffering? How could one move forward without the hope of heaven? There are some truths that mean nothing to a person who is gasping for existential air."

"Israel, the Church, and the Middle East" (Darrell L. Bock and Mitch Glaser, eds)

TITLE: Israel, the Church, and the Middle East: A biblical response to the current conflict
EDITORS: Darrell L. Bock and Mitch Glaser
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 2018, (304 pages).

This year is the 70th Anniversary of the founding of the modern state of Israel. In conjunction with this momentous event, a team of scholars and theologians have come together to reflect upon the identity of Israel, the role of the Church, and the conflicts in the Middle East. For Israel, it is the constant struggle against threats against her existence. For the Church, it is about the contrasting arguments between those who are Pro-Israel and those who are Pro-Palestinian. For the Middle East, it is that constant tensions arising from a melting pot of historical dimensions; political ambitions; religious contentions; ethnic dissensions; and social apprehensions. This book attempts to cast light on all of these with a specific coverage on the relationship between Israel and the Church. At the heart of it all is to challenge the super-sessionist standpoint among many Christians who are arguing that in God's overall plan, the modern Church has now replaced Israel. In Part One, four contributors highlight the biblical foundations. The underlying belief is that the Bible must inform all views on contemporary issues surrounding the way we view Israel. Dr Richard Averbeck discusses the theological covenants of Israel, Jews, and Gentiles with the hope that a biblical understanding will ease the conflicts between Jews and Gentiles. Dr Walter Kaiser writes about the relationships between Israel and her neighbours with Isa 19 as a guide, and hopes that the day will come where both Jews and Arabs are able to go to the house of God together. Mark Yarbrough looks at the big picture of the Bible story from Genesis to Revelation and draws out four significant genres before concluding with a "surprise narrative twist." Michael Rydelnik takes a step back to examine the "hermeneutics" of the conflict from the Old Testament arguing that both the Old and New Testaments tell of one integrated story. Using four propositions, he traces the covenant promises from Genesis to Revelation, and to say that even though the New Testament is relatively "quiet" about the land promise, it nevertheless affirms the Old Testament in many ways.

"Peaceful Mom" (April Cassidy)

TITLE: Peaceful Mom: Building a Healthy Foundation with Christ as Lord
AUTHOR: April Cassidy
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 2018, (336 pages).

Following her popular book about being a "Peaceful Wife," author and mother, April Cassidy has written one for being a "peaceful mom." The title itself suggests several things about the needs of mothers. They need some way to establish calm amid the many challenging demands on the responsibilities and expectations of a mother. They need guidance, especially new mothers, about what it takes to maintain balance between their roles as mothers, wives, and other social roles. They need peace with themselves too because some of the hardest expectations come not from without but within. This is what this book is about. It is about restoring serenity within the mother's heart, the security for the children, sanctity for the faith, and sanity for the self. The key: A mom who "knows God intimately and follows Him wholeheartedly." This central theme helps the mom to trust God with all of her circumstances; to trust God for her future; to trust God in all of life. Genuine peace must always begin with God. After all God is the Author of True Peace. There is a need to examine our own hearts to ask who or what we worship. If we are after our own expectations, probably we are what we worship. If we are after God's heart, it is God we are worshiping. This may seem obvious but it is hugely necessary. It is the anxiety behind the activities that often drive mothers to do what they thought was good for their family. Over the long run, this Trojan horse of fleshly anxiety breeds worry, discontentment, exhaustion, and eventually disillusionment with parenting. Examine the heart for any idols to be dethroned. There can be no two masters remember?

"Making Marriage Beautiful" (Dorothy Littell Greco & Christopher Greco)

TITLE: Making Marriage Beautiful: Lifelong Love, Joy, and Intimacy Start with You
AUTHOR: Dorothy Littell Greco & Christopher Greco
PUBLISHER: Colorado Springs, CO: David C. Cook Publishers, 2017, (256 pages).

Many people marry so that they could be happy. That is something that is furthest from the truth about marriage. While happiness is an important need, it should not be the key focus of a marriage. For author Dorothy and Christopher Greco, the higher reason is Christlikeness. The problem with many modern expectations about marriage is the presence of perfect expectations and the reality of imperfect people. In spite of these, there is hope. There is a chance to make difficult marriages not only bearable but beautiful. It begins by asking what kind of change we want. How are two persons who are so different going to live together? Are they willing to acknowledge their own weaknesses and brokenness? Do we need Christ only during times of crises?

We are urged to look back at our individual's family cultures to understand how our histories form our worldview and expectations of people. We need to avoid buying into cultural stereotypes surrounding male and female genders, and to shape our worldviews toward a Christlike one. See conflict as a struggle for growth. Reframe disappointment and anger as holy invitations to understand and to grow the relationship. By addressing anger appropriately, we can also avoid making five different responses to anger. Practice listening as a core skill in being a better spouse. Beware of unconscious addictions creeping into our lives. Learning to confess and to forgive are key relationship savers. Suffering despite all its negative connotations can have an upside. We can choose joy and we can move toward making marriage beautiful.

"Change of Heart" (Jeanne Bishop)

TITLE: Change of Heart: Justice, Mercy, and Making Peace with My Sister's Killer
AUTHOR: Jeanne Bishop
PUBLISHER: Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2015, (208 pages).

It is very easy to say goodbye to a distant relationship. It is also very easy to apologize for small matters. What if forgiveness is more than the word "sorry?" What if it comes with a huge cost? What if the someone before you have brutally taken away someone very dear to you? Worse, what if that someone had cruelly murdered one's younger sister, her husband, and their unborn child 23 years ago? How can one practice forgiveness amid a climate of deep evil?

If one does not know what is evil, think about a man pulling a trigger on a husband pleading for his life. Think of a pregnant woman receiving not just one but two bullets to her body: One for her and one for her unborn baby. Think of a young family who had so much future for them only to be senselessly taken away by a deranged killer. Why didn't God prevent the murders?

"Every Valley"

TITLE: Every Valley: Advent with the Scriptures of Handel's Messiah
AUTHOR/EDITOR: Jessica Miller Kelley

PUBLISHER: Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2014, (160 pages).

The world famous Handel’s Messiah is not simply a musical concert to be enjoyed. It contains a lot of biblical prophecy, theological truth, historical richness, and pastoral depth. Focusing on the Advent theme, the Messiah is about anticipating the coming of Christ. The musical setting and the various “tonal paintings” come together to offer us an engaging experience with fascinating insights into the two comings of Christ. Forty reflections helm the whole book. Comprising of meditations from various contributors found in Feasting on the Word, edited by David L. Bartlett and Barbara Brown Taylor’s and published by the same publisher, readers will be thrilled to know that the book is not simply for the Advent season of 40 days, but a window to the rest of the year, in celebration of the Incarnation of Christ. Jesus did not simply appear at Christmastide and disappear the rest of the year. Jesus is not simply the reason for one season, but the reason for ALL seasons. The reflections are divided into three parts.

• Part One – Christ’s Birth and Its Foretelling (16 meditations)
• Part Two – Christ’s Passion and Resurrection (16 meditations)
• Part Three – Christ’s Eternal Reign (8 meditations)

Not only does the book tell the entire story of the Incarnation, the Resurrection, and the Eschatological Anticipation of Jesus’ Second Coming, it enables the musical movements to accentuate key parts of Scripture. I really like the way the book challenges us to reflect and to respond on the significance of the Advent.

“Is our Advent devotion about entertainment or edification? Diversion or direction? Amusement or awareness?” (15)

Each chapter begins with a brief chorus, a passage from Scripture, and a brief devotional. I appreciated the various reflections on the very simple impressions that provide for us the contexts from which Christ had come. Like the significance of lowliness when the angel of the Lord appeared to mere shepherds, unpopular and people considered of lower esteem in society, who were just going about their daily business. There is also the counter-intuitive manner in which Christ would come; where the lame would leap, a people who walked in darkness would see light, and how Jesus would come and not just suffer for us, He suffered with us. Blended with the musical, the whole work would come across as a magnificent hymn of praise to God and a rendition of heartfelt gratitude for Jesus. 

This devotional is not about entertainment or a distraction from the worries and cares of this world. It is about questioning our present lifestyles and the presuppositions we hold in our daily lives. Not only does it illuminates us of the reality of Christ, it helps the Word penetrate into our souls to remind us of purification, our depth of belief in the promise of God, and the passion of Christ. We are forced to reckon with the differences between worldly expectations of a military might versus the humble anticipation of the Christ-child. Let us not kid ourselves. We all harbor dreams of a mighty king frequently according to our terms rather than God’s. This is perhaps one of the biggest barriers, if not the biggest in our spirituality of faith. Stripped to our bare essentials, we will realize that the One who redeems us is One who comes in the Spirit’s power. Period. 

Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me courtesy of Westminster John Knox Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"The Peace Puzzle"

TITLE: The Peace Puzzle: America's Quest for Arab-Israeli Peace, 1989-2011 (Published in Collaboration With the United States Institute of Peace)
AUTHOR: Daniel C. Kurtzer, Scott B. Lasensky, William B. Quandt, Steven L. Spiegel, and Shibley Z. Telhami
PUBLISHER: Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press, 2013, (352 pages).

Few places are more volatile than this region. Few countries in the world contain so much deeply held religious, social, cultural, and political baggages. That is right. I am referring to one of the world's most difficult puzzle to solve. The Middle East. For a world to work toward true peace, there are few who will argue that peace in the Middle East will set the pace for peacemaking all over the world. If it is indeed possible, that the Middle-East finally be at peace, it will be a model that can be heralded and profitably applied to other regions around the world. Four major developments have triggered this project. First, many existing documentation of the peacemaking process are flawed. Second, without proper literature and research, how can future leaders learn from the mistakes of old, let alone trying to build good success on the right moves? Third, it is an attempt to recapture some of the key turning and learning points from important leaders responsible for the peacemaking efforts through the years. Four, the peacemaking process is dangerously close to be unraveled, where years of good hard work are going to be wasted. Enters five passionate individuals who attempt to piece together the many broken fragments of efforts, to make some sense of of a puzzle that looks increasingly unsolvable. Yet, the call for peace remains a crucial piece of the human peacemaking dilemma. The facts remain depressing.

• Only three US-assisted breakthroughs after so many decades
• Not a single significant breakthrough for the past 20 years
• Inconsistent Presidential led peace process
• Much to learn from Henry Kissinger's peacemaking efforts, but have people learned?
• Flawed data
• Failure to learn from the past, well enough
• Political squabbling and infighting that has threatened the peace process
• Lack of unity within the US government and the legislature
• ....

There is an interesting observation about the two concepts of US peacemaking since the 70s, the first transitional/incremental, and the second, the involvement or (non-involvement) of the PLO. Both of these have led to the present shortage of peacemaking breakthroughs. The US has largely failed to prevent both Israel and its neighbours from derailing any progress gained. There is also a perceived lack of resolve by the US to go much further. That in itself is puzzling. The book that goes on to describe the historical events, the three major breakthroughs by the US, and the circumstances and contexts that led to the deafening lack of progress in the past two decades.

Part One presents the puzzle upfront as something that contains ups and downs at the negotiations in Oslo and Madrid. After NATO's victory over Iraq in 1991, and the support of Kuwait, and many other Arab countries, George H.W. Bush's reputation and the US-led peacemaking efforts are presented with a golden opportunity to work toward more lasting peace. The Oslo-accord brings Israel and the PLO together. This first chapter is a bird's eye view of the Presidential peacemaking process from Bush to Clinton. Chapter Two tracks the peace process from 1993 to 2000, examining why it has failed badly. Chapter Three looks at the Camp David summit matters in 2000. Marked more by failures rather than successes, the US has been perceived at that time to be more on Israel's side rather than a peacemaker. Chapter Four looks at the peacemaking initiatives under President George W. Bush, where two decades of how the American Presidency has left needed work to the subordinates instead of himself taking a greater role. The events of September 11 only makes it worse. Chapter Five looks at Bush's second term as President and Chapter Six about Obama's peacemaking attempts.

The authors end with eleven recommendations as follows.

1. Keep the peacemaking process firm and moving, even when the US continues to be perceived as pro-Israel;
2. US needs to "coddle" both Israel and the Palestinians
3. Ensure better transition when US Presidents change
4. US needs to be extremely "agile and determined" to exploit all opportunities for peacemaking
5. Simple slogans are unhelpful as the Middle-East peacemaking efforts are extremely complex. 
6. Consult more, surprise less.
7. Intense preparation needed, always.
8. Believe that even the most difficult leader can be influenced for peace
9. Do not "outsource" the peacemaking process. Remain a committed partner
10. The US needs to be equally tough negotiator, like the Israelis and the Palestinians
11. Domestic support, both in Congress as well as public.

My Thoughts

This book is a frank and scholarly assessment of what has gone right and what has gone wrong in America's efforts to broker peace in the Middle-East. Supported by the US Institute of Peace, five top researchers work on primary sources to study the role of the United States from the years 1989 to 2011. You can refer to more of the sources here. Through interviews, memoirs, workshops, as well as primary and secondary sources, this book is a culmination of a six year project, done mostly on the premises of the United States Institute of Peace, examining the different ways during the years of the different US Presidents, namely, Ronald Reagan (1981-89), George H.W. Bush (1989-1993), Bill Clinton (1993-2001), George W. Bush (2001-2009), and the current Barack Obama (2009-present).

If the world's superpower cannot solve one of the world's most difficult and distressing problem, can any one else do it? This is why future activists and peacemaking initiatives need to build on solid ground of well-founded documentation, research, and above all, the wisdom of peacemaking. Some puzzles may never be solved in one generation. Yet, the hope and a vision that one day it will, should be enough to keep our chins up, our hopes high, that we learn from the past, hope for the future, and work hard for peace in the present. We can all work toward peace in our neighbourhoods we live in. As far as the Middle-East peace process is concerned, maybe, we can support the US in their efforts to bring peace to the Middle-East by praying for them. Hopefully, knowing that the whole world has more to gain by the Middle-East at peace, may inspire more of us, to encourage our country's leaders to assist the US in cracking this peace puzzle. Together. This book may not have presented the magical solution. At least, it has uncovered some flaws in the previous documentation. It has also highlighted important learning moments as well as not repeating the mistakes from the past. More importantly, missed opportunities are not to be cried over. With time, there will be a new opportunity. This book can very well train our eyes and ears to see and hear the opportunities, and give us a new resolve to do something about it in the direction of peace.


Rating: 4.75 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me free by Cornell University Press and NetGalley without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"Allah - A Christian Response" (Miroslav Volf)

TITLE: Allah: A Christian Response
AUTHOR: Miroslav Volf
PUBLISHER: New York, NY: HarperOne, 2012, (330 pages).

In this important book, distinguished Yale professor, eminent scholar, and prominent theologian, Miroslav Volf puts forth a strong case for inter-religious dialogue and understanding. Center to the whole book is the assertion that both Muslims and Christians worship the same God. The difference lies in the convictions each hold about the way to God. Volf begins with ten bold statements that cover his personal convictions as a Christian. That he writes this book as a Christian for Christians; that he invites Muslims to listen in without any requirement to agree or disagree; for multiple ways to love one another; and for ways to seek convergent lifestyles of love and life, rather than divergent perspectives that divide and hurt one another. He calls this book "political theology" and is clear about saying issues pertaining to the afterlife, to salvation, and to various religious doctrines are outside the domain of this book. This book seeks to expand common ground for both Muslims and Christians to work closer together as common members of the human race. In Part One, Volf gives us a survey of the painful historical baggage where disputes, battles, crusades, and much harm caused by both parties on both parties. Thus, the "Great Chasm" continues to this day. He is strongly against any view that seeks to paint the God of Islam as different from the God of Christianity. This for Volf, is by far the biggest problem in any religious conflicts between the two religions. Volf openly disagrees with the famous evangelical, John Piper, but is quick to say that the book is not about responding to Piper's arguments. In a nutshell, for Volf, the biggest bridge builder is in maintaining that both Muslims and Christians worship the same God. He then strengthens his thesis by pointing to the historical religious wars that basically grew out of the failure to observe this belief. The three ways to cultivate the commonness are via:

1. General knowledge of God
2. Common Holy Scriptures of similar content
3. Similarity between the two faiths.

Part Two touches on some important differences in Christian and Islamic theology. He urges all to "concentrate on what is common" without disregarding the differences. Such commonness includes acknowledging the common One Creator God, a Beneficent God, worshiping the One True God, Observing the two great Commandments, and loving our neighbours. That said, Volf is also aware that actions are needed to put these common understanding to practice. 

In Part Three, the key subject is the Trinity. It is also the central point of disagreement Muslims have of Christianity. Volf takes pains to explain to some of his Muslim and Jewish friends the doctrine of the Trinity. Much of the confusion comes from terminology that Muslims do not understand.  The chapter on love, justice, and understanding is less sticky compared to the Trinity doctrine.

After dealing with the key ideas, the common and the differences, Part Four is about how to put them all together, and to live together. Volf continues to stress the importance of focusing on the common things. He restricts concerns to practical earthly matters, rather than heavenly realms. Here, Volf proposes something rather controversial. Can one be a Muslim and a Christian at the same time? He avoids answering it directly, by asking readers to consider something more important, "right worship of God through Christ." In other words, blending one's rituals, beliefs, lifestyles are secondary. Worshiping God in Christ is primary. He writes:

"The most pressing problem among religions today is not the blurring of boundaries by mixing and matching; it's the propensity to engage others with disrespect, hostility, and violence. These often manifest themselves in deep-seated prejudices and aggressive forms of mission...." (200)

Just like how Volf begins the book with 10 rejections of bigotry and misguided beliefs on both sides, Volf offers ten resolutions that minimizes extremism in any way. He upholds freedom of belief and choice. He asserts that it is possible to live together in peace and harmony, without resorting to extreme positions. He reminds us again that all forms of extremism are never due to any one single factor, but a combination of factors. Of chief concern is the lack of love and the presence of injustice. Here, practising love and goodwill to all, and fighting for peace and justice for all, are noble callings for both Muslims and Christians.

Volf is bold to take on this topic altogether, at the risk of isolating himself from both Christians as well as Muslims. If readers fail to understand his basic premise, that both Muslims and Christians worship the same God, this whole book can be easily rejected as heresy. However, if one is prepared to consider Volf's viewpoints carefully, perhaps, show some openness to his ten pointers, this book can be fodder for inter-religious dialogue and cooperation. Volf has made a strong case for unity and commonality. Unfortunately, for all the good and careful arguments, the brilliant scholarship that is so typical of Volf, the best this book can offer is to open the door for both Christians and Muslims to treat one another with respect. Treat this book as a discussion starter. Use it as a way to work together, and to understand each other better. You can disagree with Volf's thesis, but do agree with his earnest intent to build bridges using the most important common factor: We are all human beings.

Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.

conrade

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"Peace Be With You" (David Carlson)

TITLE: Peace Be with You: Monastic Wisdom for a Terror-Filled World
AUTHOR: David Carlson
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: Thomas-Nelson, 2011, (288 pages).

Terrorism and September 11 has occurred. Reactions have been many, and the most visible form is a retaliation. Yet, is that the best kind of response? Has the opportunity to instill peace, goodwill, and alleviate suffering been lost? For David Carlson and many of the people he has interviewed, the answer is yes. The opportunity has not only been wasted, it has been lost. Instead of trying to find out answers on how to respond to terrorism and 9/11 from the world of politics, military, sociology, or cultural experts, Carlson opts to learn from the monasteries. Three door knocks over a period of time started the author's quest for a more meaningful response to 9/11.

Two questions drive the author's quest in this book.

1. What the monastic community did in the aftermath of terrorism and 9/11?
2. What would the monastic community have done in the aftermath of terrorism and 9/11, in particular?

Part One of the book is a reflection on a series of interviews conducted with monks and nuns in different monasteries, spread out across the nation. In "Voices from the Desert," there is one common refrain, that the West has largely lost the opportunity to learn how to respond appropriately to violence. The formula of violence for violence, a tooth for a tooth has not only failed to stop terrorism, it has made the world a more dangerous place. Interview after interview, the monks repeatedly say that 9/11 could have been better used as a way to learn, a way to forgive, and a way to work toward true lasting peace. From Katy, the author learns that love is more a discipline of the mind rather than a feeling. The words "hope, peace, and love" have long being misunderstood by the world at large. Most people use religions more like an "X-Ray" to solve problems rather than a drummer calling people toward a higher purpose, in this case, peace.  According to one Father John, the answer to the world's void lies not in answers to the "what" question, but the "who." This and many more points readers to the key theme of peace. Peace is not found outside, but needs to begin inside us, manifested through acts of love and peace. An interesting thought is that some of the best teachings we can ever learn from are from enemies.

Part Two dives deeper into this idea of inner peace leading toward outer lasting peace. Carlson spends a considerable amount of time and space trying to lend some relevance of Thomas Merton's spirituality to the modern world of violence and terrorism. Even though Merton has died many years ago, his teachings still live. One of which is the idea of heaven and hell being in one and the same place. The difference lies in our own choice.

"We cannot choose the time in which we live, but we must choose between heaven and hell in life."

Wisdom continues to shine bright from the clear minds of the monks. One Abbot Damien reflects on why we tend to focus too much on our retaliation instead of asking ourselves, "Why are we attacked?" Instead of using violence upon violence, maybe the way is to learn humbly about the reasons behind the attacks, and to make adjustments to our own lives. The big question is: "How do we counter hate?" One Brother Christopher warns:

"When our gospel is reduced to patriotism and political payback and we're the instruments of violence and retribution that God lights on the world, give me a break. That's a simplistic, easy way out, and I think  that when we take that bait. . we forfeit the power of the gospel, the radicalism of the gospel, and Jesus is very sorry, very sad."

Prayer. Forgiveness. Humility. Charity. These are elements of love that continue to be the common response of the monastic community.  Part Three is one short chapter to bring together a possible way to readjust our sails. Comparing man's response to 9/11 to the Cross, there is much to learn. How did God respond to the violence done to Christ?

My Thoughts

This is a bold book that touches on a sensitive topic of 9/11 and the need to forgive one's enemies. I can already hear the public retort: "Easier said than done!" I agree. It is easier said than done. Having said that, it makes me curious why the monastic community are so united in that this way of peace and forgiveness is the better way. Even the Amish community practices forgiveness. I remember the Lord's Prayer that forgiveness remains at the very core of the prayer. Yet, even those of us Christians in the world, have more often than not agreed with the war proponents, the negative public sentiment with regards to Islam and terrorism, the trigger-happy leaders that prefer to use bullets and bombs over all other approaches.

It reminds me all over again how dangerous the world is. One wrong move leads to another. One bad retaliation leads to another. One act of violence breeds more violence. Is peace really possible? With man it is not. Only with God. This is my conclusion after reading this book. May readers be convicted, that the ways of God cannot be done by the strengths of man. The ways of God has to be done in God's strength. Only in God's strength, can we authentically say, "Peace be with you."

Rating: 4.8 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me free by Thomas-Nelson and NetGalley without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.