“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Click here to read the introduction to this series on the Beatitudes.
Peacemakers—one who makes peace. I don’t know about you, but peace almost seems unattainable in our world’s and country’s current situation. Life as we know it is anything but peaceful and yet it seems to be a universal desire. Yet, why is peace so hard to come by? And even harder to produce? Because peace is not manmade…we must submit ourselves to our Creator to experience true peace.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:7
The New Living Translation of Matthew 5:9 states “blessed are those who WORK for peace.” The verb “work” is full of action, not a docile waiting for something to happen. What does work for peace look like? It may look very different for each one of us, but I would ask do your actions, words, thoughts, and the way you love move others towards peace? Is your compassion and love for others so great, that those around you sense harmony?
Again, like all the previous beatitudes, for us to even slightly obtain peace we must look to the one who lived a perfect life. Isaiah 9:6b describes this man:
And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
One of the many names for Christ is “Prince of Peace.” The man we are to emulate our lives after displayed perfect peace. Jesus, in perfect union with his father, was able to exhibit peace through his way of life. Follow his example, lead a life of peace that only is found in God, so that others will know the Father’s love!
-Pastor Darcy Webster
Associate Pastor of Operations and Pastoral Care