A Peacemaker's Heart | What Does It Mean to Be a Peacemaker

 

By: Paula Short

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" (Matthew 5:9). What does it mean to be a peacemaker? And how can we be peacemakers in our own lives?

What is peacemaking?

Peacemaking is more than just avoiding conflict. It's actively working to build and restore relationships. It's seeking to understand and empathize with others, even when we disagree with them. It's being willing to forgive and to ask for forgiveness.

It doesn't mean that we have to be perfect or that we have to avoid conflict altogether. In fact, sometimes peacemaking requires us to confront difficult situations and to speak out against injustice.

But peacemaking is always done with love and compassion. It's about seeking to restore relationships and build harmony.

Why are we called to be peacemakers?

we're called to follow the example of Jesus Christ, who is the Prince of Peace. Jesus came to bring peace to the world, and he taught his followers to do the same.

Peacemaking is also important because it reflects the character of God. God is a God of peace and love. He wants us to live in peace with one another, and he empowers us to do so through the Holy Spirit.

Here are a few ways that we can be peacemakers in our everyday lives:

1. Be kind and compassionate. This means being patient and understanding with others, even when they are difficult to deal with. It means forgiving those who have wronged us and showing them the love of Christ.
2. Be a good listener. When someone's angry or upset, take the time to listen to them and try to understand their perspective. This doesn't mean that you have to agree with them, but it does mean respecting them and their feelings.
3. Be willing to compromise. Peacemaking often requires us to be ready to give up something to reach a mutually agreeable solution. This doesn't mean that we have to compromise on our values, but it does mean being willing to work with others to find a way to move forward together.
4. Be a bridge-builder. Try to be a bridge-builder. This means helping others understand each other and to find common ground.

Remember, Jesus said, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." When we work to build and restore relationships, we reflect God's character.

Being a peacemaker isn't always easy, but it is a calling that's worthy of our pursuit. When we make peace, we bring glory to God.

Let's Reflect

In a world that's often marked by division and conflict, we have a unique opportunity as Christians to be peacemakers. Let us embrace this calling and seek to bring peace wherever we go.