Many use the Book of Mormon for a moral and religious argument against war in Iraq. Refuting these arguments is awkward because of the ethos of such figures as Captain Moroni. Perhaps the only way to take a stand against these arguments is to use the same ethos.
Iraq started this whole thing several years ago with an attack on Kuwait. The United States entered war to protect a weaker nation from being crushed by a stronger one. President David O. McKay defined this cause as one of three justifiable reasons to enter - not begin - a war.
As the United States drove back the Iraqi forces, we seized an opportunity to end the bloodshed. We extended a cease-fire. This did not end the war - It provided Iraq a chance to end the war by meeting certain obligations. They were to 'cast down their weapons' and 'depart with an oath that they would not again return to war.' Sound familiar? Check out Alma 44.
Iraq's dictator has not disarmed, but is preparing for war. He has not kept his oath. Remember what Captain Moroni had to do when Zerahemnah rejected the outstretched arm of peace?
None of us want war. It brings destruction, hatred and great suffering. The answers to these kinds of problems are not easy. The answer is not and never has been to shrink and refuse to partake of a bitter cup. Let your faith in the Book of Mormon reassure you that God will prosper the cause of justice against wicked and conspiring men.
MATTHEW THORPE
Orangeville, Utah