Section 163:8c
Become a Sanctuary of Christ's Peace

For Further Reflection and Discussion

1. The author says the first step in bringing Temple ministries to their fullest expression is for each of us to recognize that “God is here, bringing this divine work to realization.” Why is that so important?
2. Section 163:8c says that congregations must be “receptive” for them to be “revived and equipped for more effective ministry.” To whom or what must they be receptive? What does it mean for congregations to be “revived and equipped”?
3. If the “Temple calls the entire church to become a sanctuary of Christ’s peace,” how can this work for the vast number of people who physically never will enter the Temple in Independence, Missouri, USA?
4. The author provides a bridge between Section 156 (“dedicated to the pursuit of peace”) and Section 163 (“become a sanctuary of Christ’s peace”). Explain the connection between these statements. How does this find practical expression in the lives of disciples of Jesus Christ?
5. Re-read the author’s description of how the church was planted in Nicaragua. What methodology was used? Why do you think it succeeded? How does it relate to Section 163:8c?
6. List walls of division that you see in society. How well do they relate to the idea of a broken link between God and humankind? How have you witnessed these walls being overcome?
7. How do you define “peace”? When have you experienced it, both internally and in community? How did that come about?
8. What would it mean for your congregation to be offering “effective ministry” leading to “true growth”?

Discernment Activity

Apostle Carlos Enrique Mejia’s article explores images of the “divine project” of peace expressed and symbolized by the Temple and lifted up in Section 163:8c. Temple as “sanctuary of Christ’s peace” and “spiritual home without dividing walls” are word pictures inviting each person and congregation to become a sacred refuge of Christ’s peace, a “home” of inclusive spirituality and healing.

Apostle Mejia also tells a story about artists competing to create the best picture of peace. Our discernment activity will invite us to explore our own images of peace. You may choose to draw or describe your picture of God’s peace in the world. Take the time to gather pen/pencil and paper or additional materials if you choose to draw your vision.

1. Read Section 163:8c, pausing to examine images or words that catch your attention.
2. Offer a brief prayer that your mind, heart, and creative imagination will be open to the deep meanings of God’s holistic peace (shalom) in this text.
3. Read this passage again and notice any changes in the images and understandings that come to you from the text or the commentary.
4. If you have decided to draw a picture of God’s creation at peace, gather your art supplies and sit in a comfortable work space. Close your eyes and prayerfully become aware of your longing for healing and peace in your life and in the world. Ask God questions about the divine project of peace: “God, what do you most long for; what are you trying to do in the world?” “God, what does your peace look like in real life?” Be open to images, pictures, words, or symbols that may come from a deep place of hope, creativity, and divine yearning.
5. When you have listened and watched for images long enough, open your eyes and begin drawing, sketching, coloring, or choosing whatever form of expression allows you to capture what has come to you during your prayer and meditation.
6. If you have chosen to write of images of God’s creation at peace, engage with the prayer-and-reflection process above, then open your eyes and describe your vision in prose, poetry, song, or scattered sentences.
7. If you are working in a group, share your experiences, insights, images, and word pictures.
8. Offer a prayer of gratitude and blessing on our call to journey with God into the deep meanings of the Temple and our lives as places of peace, sanctuary, spiritual home, and unconditional community.

—Discernment activity by Carolyn Brock