It is tempting to think of peacefulness as merely the refusal to be violent—especially when we live in a culture that emphasizes the duty to leave others alone. But if it is truly Christian peacefulness, it must involve loving action or charity. Christian charity requires that we imitate Jesus’ active loving-kindness for all. This fulfills Jesus’ central command to love our neighbor as ourselves. Especially if that neighbor is in need, Christianity requires that we come to his or her aid and actively seek justice. This kind of work is so important that, should we fail to perform it, Jesus tells us that we risk cutting ourselves off from God altogether.
— from For Love of Animals: Christian Ethics, Consistent Action
