Rising racial tensions in America erupted into violence in Dallas, Texas on July 7, 2016, during a peaceful demonstration against police brutality. At least one sniper opened fire on police officers from a building, resulting in five officers dead and seven injured, along with two civilians.

This became the deadliest day for American law enforcement since 9/11, when 71 officers died at the World Trade Center. The Dallas tragedy occurred just blocks from where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated 53 years earlier, highlighting a disturbing pattern of violence as a means to make political statements.

The prophet Jeremiah observed this human tendency toward violence: "O LORD, I know the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps" (Jeremiah 10:23). Isaiah similarly noted, "The way of peace they have not known" (Isaiah 59:8).

Jesus Christ prophesied that end times would be marked by increasing hatred and lawlessness: "And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold" (Matthew 24:12). However, scripture promises that Christ will return to establish peace, when nations will "beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks" (Isaiah 2:4).

The solution begins with individual change. We must:

• Remove hate and violence from our hearts
• Practice principles of peace in our daily lives
• Pray for healing in our communities
• Work toward reconciliation between races
• Support positive change in law enforcement practices

While systemic violence may continue until Christ's return, we can contribute to peace by transforming our own hearts and actions today, laying the foundation for a more peaceful tomorrow.

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