Be Peacemakers

-January 8, 2022-

Good morning, happy Saturday,

“Blessed be the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God.”

(Matthew 5:9).

Jesus went up on a mountain and His disciples came to Him, and they sat down to listen to His words. This passage found in Matthew chapters 5-7 is called the Sermon on the Mount, and the principles to live by are mentioned in Matthew 5:1-13. They are referred to as the Beatitudes. Each verse through verse 11 begins with “Blessed are, or “blessed are you.”

Jesus said, blessed are the poor in spirit, blessed are those who mourn, blessed are the meek, blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, blessed are the merciful, blessed are the pure in heart, blessed are the peacemakers, and blessed those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake.

As believers in Christ we have peace with God. Paul wrote in Romans 5:1, Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Not only do we have peace with God, but we also experience the peace of God when we pray with thanksgiving. Philippians 4:6 says, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Who better than Christians can be the best peacemakers to those around us.

The word peacemaker is defined as, “a person who brings about peace, especially reconciling adversaries.” It not any easy job, and many don’t apply for it. It takes grace, patience, sincerity, honesty, kindness, and most of all love. We must act and speak softly. Proverbs 15:1 tells us, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but harsh word stirs up anger.” Bringing people back together in reconciliation is an art form. Paul admonishes us, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” Sometimes because of an angry, agitated person, we can’t be at peace with them.

May the Lord help us to be men and women of peace, promoting peace, living in peace, and being peacemakers. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall called the sons of God.” We as the sons of God are the best peacemakers when we follow the example of Jesus. May God help us to do so with empathy and sympathy. We need more peace and more peacemakers in this world today.

Have a blessed day being peacemakers. Stay safe and healthy.

In His grace and goodness,

Dean