Peacemakers Needed

Matthew 5:9

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

Is there understanding of the term peacemaker in this culture, and are you wondering why would anyone ask such a question?  First, let’s define peacemaker: “a person who brings about peace.”   Such a person could be seen as a negotiator, arbitrator, mediator, and even a go-between.  In fact, when we look at Jesus those are titles that can easily be attached to Him.

 When we explore the Scriptures, this is what is said about the mediator we need in our lives; “For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.” Looking to Jesus as our go-between with the Father, as the only one who can deliver on this statement; “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)

I must confess that this subject has not been easy, for often and especially in my business life I was not at peace, so I could not fill the role of peacemaker, and I’ve let that attitude flow into other parts of my life.  When we are not at peace with others made in the image of God, we will also not be at peace with God, and the world tells us that it has the answer to peace, love, and joy, but the answer is not found in the world, but in Christ.  So what is needed to be a peacemaker, first, to grasp who you have become in Christ, and what the Father has given you?  When the joy and peace of Christ fill our life, then we will fill the lives of others as the Holy Spirit leads us.

The HCSB Study Bible, on page 1618 in the footnote, has this to say on being a peacemaker: “The ministry of peacemaker involves resolving conflict by making prompt apologies and acts of restitution, refusing to seek revenge, and humbly serving and loving one’s enemies.”  I will not bet the farm on many things, but I am willing to do it on this statement, it is impossible to achieve the above statement out side of letting Jesus do it all for you and through you.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice