June 10, 2025
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” -Matthew 5:9
We long for peace, not just the absence of conflict but a healed and unified world. We hope for peace in the workplace, and we desire peace in our homes. Peace is the longing of our hearts. Peace is written about throughout the scriptures. The children of God are invited to be peacemakers. Just look around; this is a challenging calling.
The arrival of the kingdom of heaven ushers in the Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6) Jesus would remind the people of their duty to love all, even their enemies. (Matthew 5:43-48) This teaching is found in the Sermon on the Mount, in the same chapter as the Beatitudes.
In Jesus’s time, many groups divided the people. The Zealots wanted to overthrow Rome and constantly used violence to enforce their beliefs. The Pharisees divided the faithful with their religious burdens and constant persecution. Jesus confronted them in love. His desire was for all to live in faithful peace with one another.
What does peace look like? The word peace first appears in scripture as the Hebrew word shalom. It indicates a desire for good between two parties. Shalom can be between people, governments, nations, or between people and God. The word peace also describes a passion for the well-being of others. Peace hopes the best for all people. It does not desire revenge.
The work of being a peacemaker begins with following the Prince of Peace. Our devotion to Jesus teaches us to see others as children of God. When we understand that God loves ALL people, we then realize we must work to care for others, just as God does for us. Peace is a gift of God to each of us. Jesus brings peace. John records Jesus saying, “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)
The peace that Jesus offers us is not a gift to keep to ourselves. It is a gift for the whole world. Peacemakers work to bless others through prayer and service. Our model for this is Jesus. He prayed for all, and he served everyone. We live in a world that desires the gift of peace. We can offer this gift today. Let us start by praying, even for our enemies, and looking for opportunities to demonstrate the love of God found in Christ.
-Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
