Spirit-based conflict resolution

BY JEREMY CARPER

The violence and deaths following claims that there were irregularities in the recent elections in Kenya have shaken many people around the world. For years, this beautiful and vibrant country has been viewed as one of the African continent's stabler democracies. But as of this writing, attempts to restore peace through support from other African leaders don't seem to be working. The situation is evolving so rapidly, however, that conditions could change at any moment.

For me, the present and pressing need isn't to discover who did or didn't do what during the elections. Rather, I'm praying to rise above the conflict that is wracking Kenya. Prayer is a way for me to contribute to peace in East Africa and the world. The prayer that can transform society is not a composite of sweeping generalizations or wistful thinking. It is specific acknowledgment of God's power and of His government right where rage and antagonism seem to be.

Mary Baker Eddy saw that transformation is attainable when consciousness is roused to acknowledge that only God is in control. She wrote, "With one Father, even God, the whole family of man would be brethren; and with one Mind and that God, or good, the brotherhood of man would consist of Love and Truth, and have unity of Principle and spiritual power which constitute divine Science" (Science and Health, pp. 469-470). To begin from the standpoint that God is All leads us to spiritually scientific brotherhood. This is spiritual conflict resolution.

About the author

Jeremy Carper is a Christian Science practitioner in Frederickburg, Virginia. He was in the diplomatic corps of the US State Department for many years.

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