I sense that our motives for taking part in an action for peace are crucial to the effectiveness of that action. But I am not clear about my motives. I can’t say with confidence that I am moved more by love for enemies (in this case, warmongers and other violent people) than by a desire…
“Peace and Nonviolence”: Part 14 of “The Life of the Spirit” in Quaker Faith & Practice for the 21st Century
[W]ithin us is a relational spirit that “never consents” to selfishness. That holy spirit, which we tend to repress, constantly critiques our attitudes and actions, … wanting to awaken us to the divine power and wisdom waiting in our hearts.
We are pacifists because, re-centered in God-who-is-agapē, we find that love is stronger than our fear and anger.
We still live under the God of war, not the Prince of Peace. … The “ocean of darkness” is disheartening, but I find courage in the example of those Friends who, despite the failure of the eschaton, never forsook their commitment to the spirit of justice and peace….
There may not be any idea more threatening to the powers that be than that justice, peace, and mercy are attainable in this world.
George Fox rejected military service and participation in war not because he was a pacifist but because he was a saint.
