The Constitution as Iron Rod: Peacemaking in a Pluralistic Age

The pursuit of peace. It’s a yearning woven into the fabric of humanity, a constant refrain in the prayers of the righteous. Yet, in a world increasingly fractured by ideological division and moral relativism, true peacemaking often feels elusive, even impossible. President Oaks, in his recent address at the National Cathedral—a speech framed as “Freedom and the Common Good”—illuminates a path forward, one deeply grounded in the principles of the U.S. Constitution and, ultimately, in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Listen to the full episode

The brilliance of President Oaks’s remarks lies in his reframing of the Constitution. It’s not a static, historical artifact, but a living model for navigating the complexities of a pluralistic society. He notes, as did Professor Yuval Levine, that “creating common ground is a key purpose of the Constitution.” Consider the context: thirteen disparate colonies, each with its own unique customs, beliefs, and ambitions, forging a nation from thirteen different states. The compromises required, the relinquishing of power, the willingness to find commonality amidst profound differences—these are lessons that resonate powerfully with our understanding of covenant living.

This perspective is crucial, especially given the prevalent, and often misguided, understanding of peacemaking. As the podcast rightly points out, peacemaking is not passivity; it is not a retreat from righteous conviction. Rather, it is an active pursuit of reconciliation, a deliberate effort to build bridges across divides while maintaining fidelity to truth. It requires discernment, patience, and, above all, a Spirit-led commitment to seeking the Lord’s will.

The historical parallels are striking. Our pioneer ancestors, guided by Brigham Young, faced an analogous challenge: establishing order and governance in a vast, unsettled territory. Their authority was initially derived from the Church, a theocracy operating within a nascent democracy. This unique blend of spiritual leadership and self-governance offered a vital lesson – a testament to the power of covenant principles in shaping a just and peaceful society.

The persistent misunderstanding and sometimes outright hostility faced by Latter-day Saints throughout history underscores the importance of this approach. Even now, a “huge veil” obscures the restored gospel, and prejudice lingers. Yet, as President Oaks observes, we have emerged from a place of isolation to a place of greater understanding. This progress is a testament to the power of faithfulness, integrity, and a commitment to seeking common ground, even when it demands significant sacrifice.

The Constitution, viewed through the lens of covenant principles, becomes an iron rod – a guide to lead the children of Israel out of darkness and into the light. It provides a framework for just governance, for protecting individual liberties, and for fostering a society where truth and righteousness can flourish. But it is a rod that requires constant vigilance, a rod that demands we actively participate in upholding its principles and in seeking the common good.

Let us, therefore, strive to emulate the example of our pioneer ancestors and of the framers of our Constitution—men and women who, guided by divine inspiration, sought to build a nation founded on principles of righteousness and peace. Let us approach the challenges of our own time with the same spirit of humility, compromise, and unwavering commitment to truth.

Consider this: how might the principles of constitutionalism inform your interactions with those who hold differing viewpoints? How can we actively seek to build bridges of understanding within our own communities and beyond?