Peacemakers, Not Peacekeepers
I’ve said this before, I am a thermostat. I set the peace in the space that I’m in. Whether it’s my home, the grocery store…. Any interaction that I have with someone is an opportunity to bring peace to a space. I have to admit, I’m not always a peacemaker. It’s not in my nature to be constantly peaceful. Things make me angry. Yeah, I said angry. I think the word “frustrated” is kind of a cop out but I won’t get into that today. Interactions can make me sad, worried, anxious… but by actively stepping into the role of a peacemaker, I’m choosing to not run away and hide to keep the peace…
Today we’re going to talk about what is a peacemaker, what is peacemaking, and how that can help create a peaceful space where you are.
Let’s first start by talking about what peacemaking is not. To clear up misconceptions about peacemakers, it's important to understand that peacemaking doesn't imply the lack of conflict. The biblical idea of peace is distinct from pacifism, and peacemaking doesn't entail avoiding or neglecting strife. This simply postpones the inevitable. Moreover, striving for peace at any cost doesn't align with biblical principles, and it's not always feasible to satisfy all parties involved. Genuine peacemaking requires tackling problems instead of adjusting to them and avoiding the tendency to overlook issues and pretend that everything is well.
What did Jesus mean by the term "peacemaker"? To define it, a peacemaker is someone who is proactively working to reconcile people with God and with each other. By examining the word "peacemaker," we can easily recognize that it’s a combo of two commonly used words, "peace" and "maker."
The word "peace" originates from the Hebrew word "shalom," often used as a greeting or farewell. It is a broad term that encompasses health, prosperity, harmony, and wholeness, representing perfect welfare, fulfillment, and liberation from all obstacles that hinder contentment. When a Jew greeted someone with "Shalom," they were asking for the full presence, peace, and prosperity of God's blessings to be with them. The well-known Aaronic benediction of Numbers 6:24-26 highlights this concept very well:
"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord look with favor on you and give you peace" (Num. 6:24-25).
It's crucial to remember that peace in the Bible is always founded on justice and righteousness. Where there is justice and righteousness, there is also lasting peace. Without those two virtues, genuine peace cannot exist.
The term "maker" in "peacemakers" originates from a Greek verb meaning "to do" or "to make," which is a word filled with energy, demanding action and initiative. Someone must take the initiative to bring the combatants to the table and provide them with a reason to lay down their arms. Jesus did not say, "Blessed are the peace-wishers, the peace-hopefuls, the peace-dreamers, the peace-lovers, or the peace-talkers." Instead, he implied that peace must be created, and it never happens by chance. A peacemaker is not passive but always active, taking the initiative, and engaged.
So, when we combine these two words, "peace" and "maker," we find a description of one who actively pursues peace. A peacemaker strives for more than just the absence of conflict; they don't shy away from strife (in reality, peacemaking can sometimes lead to more conflict); they don't attempt to appease warring parties; they don't attempt to accommodate everyone. Instead, they pursue all of God's beauty and blessings for others.
However, this undertaking will not be effortless, nor will it be pretty. Moreover, those who take on this task will often be misunderstood. Sadly, when we read Jesus' words, "Blessed are the peacemakers," we smile and say, "That's nice." But the truth is that peacemaking is not a pleasant endeavor. It is a challenging and emotionally draining process that takes time. It's like crossing a fast-moving stream on slippery rocks, a necessary journey that is risky and can result in bruises and falls.
I also gotta tell you… sometimes peacemaking does not work. In his letter to the Romans, Paul encouraged,
"If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all" (Rom. 12:18)
We are called to live in peace with everyone, but there are individuals who seem to thrive on conflict, and living in peace with them is just not happening.
However, let’s focus on the phrase "as far as it depends on you." We are recognized by our ability to coexist with others, and the church is judged by its ability to do the same. Pursuing peace is a God-given and scripturally-directed responsibility. The apostle Paul affirmed,
"God has called you to peace" (1 Cor. 7:15)
This does not mean that we must agree with everything others say or do. Sometimes we agree to disagree amicably. God wants his children to be bridge builders.
So in light of this revelation of what a peacemaker is… how then shall we live? What steps can we take to actively reconcile people to God and to one another? How can we build those bridges of peace? Well let’s dive into how we can actively bring peace to a space.
Before you talk to someone who has wronged you or whom you have wronged, it's vital to have a heart-to-heart with God. This helps you gain perspective and compassion, and identify the underlying issues and your role in the problem. God can also reveal any negative attitudes, words, or actions that may hinder reconciliation. Even if the other person is mostly at fault, it's still essential to admit your own mistakes and let go of the conflict.
Don't wait for the other person to make the first move, take the initiative yourself. Jesus taught us to be proactive in reconciling with our brothers and sisters, even if we aren't entirely to blame. Whether you send a letter, make a phone call, or visit them in person, taking action is key. It's essential to find peace of mind and set an example for others as a follower of Christ.
When you do communicate with the other person, it's important to be gentle, empathetic, and avoid attacking or blaming them. Listen to their perspective and try to understand where they're coming from. Work together to find a solution and focus on reconciliation instead of winning the argument.
Avoid talking about people behind their backs. Gossip only fuels conflict and damages relationships. As a peacemaker, it's essential to communicate directly with the person involved and not involve others unless necessary. Remember, if someone gossips to you, they'll probably gossip about you too.
Christ's call to peacemaking is so profound that it requires a complete inner transformation. To be a peacemaker, you must first experience the profound sense of peace that comes from God. Without this inner peace, we cannot truly make peace. It is impossible to share something that we do not have ourselves. The journey towards peacemaking starts with finding peace in our own hearts.
Paul consistently began his letters with the salutation,
"Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" (Phil. 1:2)
The order of these two concepts is essential, as grace always comes before peace. Before we can share God's peace with others, we need to receive His grace and establish a relationship with Jesus. Only by knowing peace ourselves can we work towards peace in our relationships. In short, we cannot make peace if we do not have peace.
So, do you know the Peacemaker? Have you formed a personal connection with Jesus, our Prince of Peace? Currently, our Lord is actively seeking volunteers to join God's Peace Corps. He desires individuals who are willing to spread God's peace worldwide.
Given that the world is plagued by conflict, turmoil, and suffering, there is a significant amount of work to be done. Are you willing to step forward and become a peacemaker? Keep in mind that even the smallest steps and purest actions are revered by God!
So, how can you contribute to creating a peaceful space? By being a peacemaker! And what title will you hold? A child of God!
