A Message of Peace, Love, and Action in Troubled Times

To Be Encouraged – A Message of Peace, Love, and Action in Troubled Times

In a particularly heartfelt and relevant episode of “To Be Encouraged” , Rev. Dr. Brad Miller welcomes Bishop Julius C. Trimble for a powerful conversation that weaves together the complexities of our national moment, the need for compassion, and the enduring wisdom of faith and family. Their discussion addresses recent political decisions, the militarization of Washington, D.C., and offers a deeply personal reflection as Bishop Trimble honors his late mother’s remarkable legacy of peace and love.

Here are three key takeaways from this moving episode:

1. Compassion Is Vanishing—And We’re Called to Restore It

Bishop Trimble begins by calling out a disturbing trend in our democracy: what he describes as “a decrease in Democratic compassion.” Recent federal actions, such as the deployment of National Guard troops and increased militarization of D.C.’s streets, are met with widespread unease—not just because of their practical implications, but because they symbolize a shift away from a nation that prioritizes the welfare of the marginalized.

Trimble laments that compassion—once a bipartisan value—now appears expendable in the race toward authority and control. Instead of militaristic responses, he suggests investment in mental health services, affordable housing, and youth programs as more effective, compassionate ways to address crime and social unrest. This call to return to a compassionate ethic is a rallying cry for faith leaders and all who care about justice.

2. Peace and Love Are Action Words, Not Passivity

A highlight of the episode is Bishop Trimble’s heartfelt tribute to his mother, Mary Bell Pryor Trimble, who passed away at the age of 102. Her lifelong refrain—“peace and love”—was not just a pleasant greeting but her philosophy of life and faith. She reminded her family to “put on the whole armor of God” (Ephesians 6) and serve as “Christians in Action.” Peace and love, in this framework, are not about avoiding conflict or naively wishing for better days; they are active forces, requiring engagement, integrity, and sometimes, courageous confrontation of injustice.

Trimble powerfully reframes peace: “Peace is not the absence of all conflict or problems. It’s the presence of Jesus Christ.” Likewise, love is not an excuse for complacency but a call to generosity, justice, and service.

3. Our Legacy: Be an Impactor, Not Just an Influencer

As the episode closes, the conversation turns to legacy. Bishop Trimble shares a leadership insight: “People are going to describe you in one sentence when you die. Why not write it now?” His mother’s legacy—peace and love—resonated in tangible ways throughout her life, community service, and the generations she shaped. In an era obsessed with social media influence, Bishop Trimble challenges listeners to focus on real impact—living out faith in ways that ripple outward long after we’re gone.

Final Thoughts
This episode of “To Be Encouraged” reminds us that true encouragement flows from lived values. In times of turmoil, let us carry forward the legacy of peace, love, and compassionate action—not just in word, but in deed. We are all invited to be—and do—encouragement in the world.