Russell M. Nelson said: “Because of the long history of hostility upon the earth, many feel that peace is beyond hope. I disagree. Peace is possible. We can learn to love our fellow human beings throughout the world. Whether they be Jewish, Islamic, or fellow Christians, whether Hindu, Buddist, or other, we can live together with mutual admiration and respect, without forsaking our religious convictions. Things we have in common are greater than our differences. Peace is a prime priority that pleads for our pursuit. Old Testament prophets held out hope and so should we. The Psalmist said, “ God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalms 46:1). “He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth” (Psalm 49:9).
Father Abraham was uniquely called a “Friend of God” (James 2:23). Peace was one of Abraham’s highest priorities. He sought to be a “prince of peace” (Abraham 1:2). His influence could loom large in our present pursuit of peace. His sons, Ishmael and Isaac, though born of different mothers, overcame their differences when engaged in a common cause. After their father died they worked together to bury the mortal remains of their exalted father (see Genesis 25:9). Their descendants could well follow that pattern.
Abraham’s posterity has a divinely decreed potential. The Lord declared that Ishmael would become a great nation and that the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob would bless all the nations of the earth.
So descendants of Abraham—entrusted with great promises of infinite influence—are in a pivotal position to emerge as peacemakers. Chosen by the Almighty, they can direct their powerful potential toward peace.
Resolution of present political problems will require much patience and negotiation. The process would be enhanced greatly if pursued carefully. (“‘Blessed are the Peacemakers,’” Ensign, November 2002, and from “Teachings of Russell M. Nelson, Deseret Book, 2018 p. 246-4)
