He was saying this as I arrived…
«This is the season when everyone, or almost everyone, is speaking about peace. Peace on earth, peace at home, peace everywhere. But do they all understand or even know what peace is? I too ask myself what is peace Deacon 11, and I tell you, I have to think about that one.
First, one can say that peace is the absence of war, strife, fear, stress, difficulties and everything else that we can think of that can perturb our «peace». But I tell you that peace is more than that.
As far as peace being the absence of war, well, I don’t think so. Lao Tzu, a wise Chinese philosopher, originator of Taoism and author of the Tao Te Ching said, among many things, that, «A good soldier is not an angry man», and that, “A man with outward courage dares to die; a man with inner courage dares to live.” So where is the peace? Is peace surrounding the good soldier and the courageous man?
Jesus said “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.» (St. Matthew 10: 34-36) Was Jesus saying that he did not believe in peace on earth? I do not think so. I think he was talking to the good soldier and to the courageous man.
Peace is gained through the struggle. Peace is the outcome of the fight. Peace is the resolution of violence. Peace is the state of being that allows you communion with God, with Godliness and with the power that rules the universe. Peace is not a wish, it is a triumph. Peace is found when one is in a state of harmony with life, with the universe, with those that surround us and with God. One cannot find peace, or be at peace, simply because one wants it or wishes it. One must take up the sword and fight for the right to be at peace.
And do not get me wrong, I am not, by any means, saying that to have peace one has to eliminate one’s enemies. No, we are commanded to love as God loves us means we must include our enemies. Our struggle is within ourselves. for within us is the Kingdom of God and it has many enemies. Those are the ones we take our sword to, and in so doing, we find we have won our peace, our right to peace.
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Deacon 11 is a new series on VALENCIARTIST which will appear (hopefully) once weekly. It is a series where we will invite a guest to discuss (briefly) a spiritual topic. To participate send us your email address and we will supply the information.
CHEERS
JaZzArt en València 
Powerful reflection. True peace comes from overcoming the inner struggles that separate us from God. It’s not the absence of conflict but the presence of harmony with Him. Well said…
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Thank you brother. Are you up to being Deacon 11 for a post?
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Yes Sir, Thank you so much. Can you fill me in on the details of what exactly you would want me to do and not do. You know I am just an ordinary guy. I am not a Pastor or Teacher. I just share what the Lord puts in my heart. I hope I can do you all justice … I am so honored my Brother that you asked me to partake and be a part of this..
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I know that brother Willie, that is why I have asked you to provide a simple, from the heart teaching through this series. What I want you to do is to think of a subject and pray about it and the Lord will guide you as to what to write. I will never tell you what not to write. You are a very spiritual man with the gift of writing and that is how you reach souls. Write something brief but complete, concise but enjoyable and trust that He will guide your hand. Thank you brother.
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Made For More
Published by
Willie Torres Jr.
on January 7, 2025
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By NorthBridge Church in Antioch “Made for More” by Bethel Music is a song that speaks about stepping into God’s… |
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By NorthBridge Church in Antioch
“Made for More” by Bethel Music is a song that speaks about stepping into God’s calling and embracing the truth that we were created for a greater purpose. The lyrics emphasize trust in God, surrendering to His plans, and realizing that life is about more than what we see—it’s about His eternal promises and love. It’s an anthem of faith, purpose, and courage.
Do you relate to the themes in the song?
The video below showcases the worship band from our home church, NorthBridge Church in Antioch. Take a moment to listen and reflect on the powerful and beautifully written words of this praise. Made For More I know who I am ’cause I know who You are The cross of salvation was only the start Now I am chosen, free and forgiven I have a future and it’s worth the living
‘Cause I wasn’t made to be tending a grave, I was called by name Born and raised back to life again, I was made for more
So why would I make a bed in my shame When a fountain of grace is running my way? I know I am Yours, and I was made for more
I know who I am ’cause I know who You are The cross of salvation was only the start Now I am chosen, free and forgiven I have a future and it’s worth the living
‘Cause I wasn’t made to be tending a grave, I was called by name Born and raised back to life again, I was made for more
So why would I make a bed in my shame When a fountain of grace is running my way? I know I am Yours, and I was made for more
Hallelujah, You called out my name, so I’ll sing out Your praise
Hallelujah, You buried my past, I’m not going back
Hallelujah, You called out my name, so I’ll sing out Your praise
Hallelujah, You buried my past, I’m not going back
‘Cause I wasn’t made to be tending a grave, I was called by name Born and raised back to life again, I was made for more
So why would I make a bed in my shame When a fountain of grace is running my way? I know I am Yours, and I was made for more
(Come on, sing it out)
I wasn’t made to be tending a grave, I was called by name Born and raised back to life again, I was made for more
So why would I make a bed in my shame When a fountain of grace is running my way? I know I am Yours, and I was made for more (Come on, hallelujah)
Oh, hallelujah, You called out my name, so I’ll sing out Your praise
Hallelujah, You buried my past, I’m not going back
Hallelujah, You called out my name, I’ll sing out Your praise Signing hallelujah, You buried my past, I’m not going back
I wasn’t made to be tending a grave, I was called by name Born and raised back to life again, I was made for more Come on, sing it over yourself, oh
So why would I make a bed in my shame When a fountain of grace is running my way? I know I am Yours, and I was made for more (yeah)
Willie Torres Jr.
1/04/2025
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Made For More
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By NorthBridge Church in Antioch “Made for More” by Bethel Music is a song that speaks about stepping into God’s… |
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Por los vientos que soplan, la paz está en compaz de espera. El caos mundial, con muchos frentes abiertos a la guerra, no hay manera de que las grandes potencias se pongan de scuerdo. Ojala que la espada solo fuera para alcanzar la paz. Excelenre reglexión Francisco.
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Gracias a nombre del Deacon 11, amigo mío, y un abrazo.
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Por nada amigo Francisco
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Thoughtful introduction to this new series, Francisco.
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Thank you Pat. Glad you liked it.
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My pleasure.
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Peace and joy come from within. You must live in harmony with yourself first. Angry, hateful people will never find peace, no matter what their surroundings may be.
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For sure. Thank you. 🙏🏻
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Fight a good fight and for a future filled with hope. Sometimes war is necessary and it should be the absolutely last resort.
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Without a doubt! Thanks Cassa!
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