Pondering the Book of Mormon Regarding Current-Day Wars

   I do not know whether our current situations can be compared to those in the Book of Mormon, as to whether we should enter war, for it seems their situations (meaning those of the Nephites) were for their own protection, not the defense of those in far-off lands.

   But, I think it not wrong to at least consider on the attitude of the God-fearing Nephites. So, let us consider Alma 48, which is one place of insight. The Nephites had had a short period of peace, when they "were compelled to reluctantly contend with their brethren, the Lamanites." (Verse 21)

   The verse is telling, to me, in that it suggests we should not be anxious for war. But, it is also to be noted that there are times when conditions compel even a reluctant and righteous people to war.

   "Now, they were sorry to take up arms against the Lamanites, because they did not delight in the shedding of blood." (Verse 23)

   Again, it suggests that rather than to relish war, when the righteous enter it, they enter with sorrow and regret.

   "Nevertheless, they could not suffer to lay down their lives, that their wives and their children should be massacred . . ." (Verse 24)

   Defending oneself, and defending family, make entry in a war necessary. Defending ones country, and its people, at times makes war necessary.

    So, what of people in far-off lands? As I type away here, I remember a meme that came across Facebook earlier this week, a quote by Dr. Paul Farmer. "The idea that some lives matter less is the root of all that is wrong with the world."

   And, I wonder if it is just as just to protect those in foreign lands as it is to protect our own.