The Way of the Peacemaker

06/29/2025

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
— Matthew 5:9 (NIV)

There’s something deeply powerful about peace. But, even more powerful, is the person who actively pursues it. Jesus doesn’t say, “Blessed are the peaceful,” but peacemakers, those who roll up their sleeves and step into conflict, tension, or division with the goal of bringing wholeness and reconciliation. That’s no easy calling. It takes courage, humility, wisdom, and love.

Peacemakers aren’t passive. They don’t ignore wrongs or sweep problems under the rug. Instead, they speak truth in love, seek reconciliation over retaliation, and choose bridges over barricades. And when they do, Jesus says something remarkable happens, they bear a striking family resemblance to God Himself. They will be called children of God.

When we choose to forgive rather than hold grudges…
When we choose to listen rather than shout louder…
When we seek understanding over being right…
We reflect the heart of our Father.

One of the most profound examples of peacemaking in modern history comes from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In the face of racial injustice, violence, and hatred, Dr. King chose the path of nonviolent resistance. His leadership during the Civil Rights Movement was not about revenge or retaliation but about bringing reconciliation, justice, and dignity through peace. He preached love for enemies, stood firm in faith, and appealed to the conscience of a nation, not through anger, but through grace and truth. His peacemaking efforts didn’t always bring immediate peace, but they reflected the Kingdom of God in action. His life, though cut short, still speaks loudly: blessed are the peacemakers.

Jesus Himself is the ultimate peacemaker. Through the cross, He reconciled us to God and tore down the wall of hostility between people. As His followers, we are called to follow in His footsteps.

Here are some things you can do today to help you on your journey.

Is there a relationship in your life marked by tension or distance? Pray for the courage to be a peacemaker.

Choose one small act of peace today, send a kind message, forgive a wrong, or ask someone their story instead of judging their stance.

Study someone in history or scripture who modeled peacemaking and ask what traits you can imitate.

My challenge for you is this:
Look for one opportunity today to actively bring peace, whether at work, home, or in a conversation online. Step in with grace, not with a hammer.

Father, thank You for calling me Your child. I want to reflect Your heart by making peace, not just keeping it. Help me to be bold in love, wise in speech, and tender in action. Give me the courage to step into the messiness of broken relationships and be an agent of Your healing grace. May others see You in me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Pastor Jeff

#LoveGod #LovePeople #FindFreedom #FindYourDesign

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