Blessed are the peacemakers.....

September theme: Called to be peacemakers

Matthew 5:9 “Blest too the peacemakers, they shall be called sons of God.” (NAB) “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God.” (NIV) “Happy are those who make peace, for they will be known as sons of God.” (Phillips) “You’re blessed when you can show peace, how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and take your place in God’s family.” (MSG) “God blesses those people who make peace. They will be called his children.” (CEV) Heavenly Father, Peacemakers….we certainly need them in this world! Wars and strife are rampant in some parts of the world. Why do our attempts at helping to bring about peace in other countries always involve war, killing, and bloodshed of the innocent? Can peace come from warlike methods? Never a lasting peace, it seems. Peace is needed in our country, too and in every city, every home, every church. There should never be disharmony in the church…and yet there is! How do we find real peace? How do we “make” peace with others? It should be easy among Christians because the Holy Spirit is producing Christ-like character within us. Peace is part of your presence within our hearts. Colossians 3:15 speaks about “the peace of Christ” and says we are “called to peace”. We are constantly told to forgive others. Christians cannot harbor hatred and resentment and exhibit Christ’s peace. Being “called” to peace means it is not an option…it is a command from you. When we say that peacemakers are “blessed” it works both ways. We give a blessing by making peace with others, and we receive a blessing in our own life from this peace that we make. Being “blessed” is almost like a title or reward. This is a deep spiritual well-being and happiness. We have this deep happiness when we bring about peace with others. To make peace you have to have the other spiritual fruit also….love joy, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control in particular. It all works together. If we exhibit each of those characteristics, how can we possibly not make peace? Peace will become as natural as breathing! You don’t make war with those you love. You aren’t gentle or kind or patient with those you feel hatred toward or can’t forgive. You can’t be self-controlled in the presence of disharmony. “They will be called sons of God!” This ability to make peace will stand out in a way others will come to see as the very likeness of our Father! We will be obvious sons of a loving, forgiving Father and enjoy great blessings now and forever! Amen.