No wonder Mordecai was second in rank to the king. No wonder Joseph was second only to Pharaoh. No wonder Daniel rose to just under the king. Three Jews in non-Jewish countries all rose to power by working for the good of the people. James calls them peacemakers. When you work for the good of the people you also work for peace among the people.

There is so much unrest in the world today. So many communities that are in turmoil. Most of the unrest and turmoil comes from leaders who don’t work for the good of the people. I don’t have to name them for you, you read or watch the news. Where there is civil war there are no Mordecai’s or Joseph’s or Daniel’s.

Which role in the community are we taking? Peacemaker, troublemaker? Do we work for the good of all and not just ourselves? Christians have the opportunity to be the leaven for good in their cities and towns. Followers of Christ can sow seeds of peace among the weeds of disruption. Soft speech turns away anger. Turning the other cheek promotes peace.

Today pray for peace in our community. Today make it your goal to work for the good of others at every opportunity. If none comes up, create one. We are, after all, created for good works.