I was brought up short this week by the words of Jesus. In his opening of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), he says, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the children of God." I have preached on this saying, and still I missed something crucial. (I need to go back and look at that sermon and see what in the world I said.)
So these peacemakers have the good life, Jesus says. What does it take to be a peacemaker? It takes involvement. It takes getting in the middle of the fray. A peacemaker is one who recognizes discord or conflict and works to mediate a resolution. You can't just observe and comment. You have to engage the opposing factions and facilitate understanding and compassion.
Unfortunately, it looks like we will need some serious peacemaking in 2024. Already there are plenty of wars around the world, and the looming possibility for more. But the stage is set for lots of political fighting here in the U.S. this year.
Progressives and conservatives often consider the other side to be the enemy. Too often they characterize the other people as evil.
Enter the peacemakers (please!). We need Jesus-followers to step in (not barge in) to situations where people are looking for the worst in others, where emotions are high, where hate is boiling over. Such disciples can listen and encourage others to listen. They can recognize the image of God in people on both sides. They can urge compassion across the political divide.
Maybe peacemakers will make a difference this year. It will make the world a better place.
