The Gospels reveal Jesus as a man of peace. He had peace with his father. He communicated, expressed and encouraged peace as he interacted with people. He gave his life so that there would be eternal peace between God and the human race. In his most significant sermon he included peace as one of the beatitudes. “Blessed are the peacemakers...” The New Living Translation translates our Lord’s words as : ”God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5:9‬

There certainly is something to be said for those who broker peace between nations, or peace between divided communities. Yet it seems that Jesus words are more significant than honoring those who who benefit society by bringing reconciliation to aggrieved parties. Within the context of his teaching “God blesses those who work for peace” touches every one of us, whether or not the culture at large is aware of what we do.

As God’s Holy Spirit fills your life one of the identified outcomes (fruit) is peace. This peace begins in your heart when, instead of internally forming a negative opinion about someone, you choose to withhold judgement. In our world where anxiety, anger, and accusation often harms human interaction, you have been called to a different way. You are a child of God through Jesus Christ. The Spirit of God lives in you causing you to bring peace to all you encounter.

Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times when my thoughts, words and deeds do not lead to peace. I Thank you that you forgive me and continue to lead me to bring your peace to everyone. Amen.