I am slightly discombobulated. To those who know this clerical apricot, it will come as no surprise.
Sometimes I have to ask myself, “Who is telling the truth?” or “Who can I believe?”
In a war or conflict, which side do I take?

Propaganda—while it can stir and encourage hearts to support a just cause—can also mislead and result in suffering.
My baseline is compassion. Jesus tells us, “Be compassionate as your Father is compassionate.”

I have always understood an aspect of compassion is to care for the innocent who suffer because of the conflict that wraps its web around them. I believe Jesus called these souls “the little ones.”
Sometimes, highlighting the “little ones” softens stubborn hearts, opening doors to diplomacy and compromise.
The innocent are inevitably at the heart of truth. If reported and cared for, they can shame both sides into seeking a resolution.
No propaganda is needed—only the truthful reporting of the innocent who are suffering.

Strangely, compassion is not listed as a gift or fruit of the Spirit. Isaiah and St Paul do not mention it.
Yet we know it is part of God’s DNA. Jesus said, “Be compassionate as your Father is compassionate.”
Regardless of our religion, if we are all made in the image and likeness of God—if we share that divine DNA—then all of us can be compassionate.
Catholic and Protestant. Jew and Muslim. Hindu and Sikh. Atheist and agnostic…

We can all notice the “little ones” and unlock the doors to compromise and peace.

Let us pray and work for that.