Today's tidbit from Brian McLaren, in a discussion on the kingdom of God: We need to be careful in our interpretation of the book of Revelation, specifically the visions of the apocalypse. This is a man whose power was in gentleness, who said "blessed are the peacemakers." It's as if peace didn't work the first time so "Watch out, he's coming back with a gun!" But the sword Christ carries in Rev. 1 is in his mouth, not his hand. Not very effective as an offensive weapon. The "sword" is the word.

The way we understand the Christ in John's apocalyptic vision has implications for the church today. If not even God could accomplish God's purposes for the world through peace, if even God has to resort to violence, doesn't that sort of let us off the hook in following the Prince of Peace?