"BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS..." MATTHEW 5:9

One who is 'peaceful', that is, one who is full of peace, may not, in fact, be a "peacemaker". A "peacemaker" denotes something we do and become. It is not just being passive, rather, it is something that is aggressive in nature. There is the understanding that the "peacemaker" makes every effort to reconcile people who are opposing one another. Disciples of Jesus Christ are to "pursue peace with all people." This can be a difficult task but it is rewarding. This world is full of 'peace-breakers'. It is evident in the church, in our community, in our state, in our nation and certainly in the world. There are times when a 'part' may represent the 'whole'; however, it not always the case that such is true. We can become judgemental when we conclude that it does. For example, extreme hate groups in our country are not representative of all the citizens of our great nation. Extremes begat extremes and often the "peacemakers" are found in the middle of the situations. And we must understand that true peace is to be sought without a compromise of truth. The "peacemaker" often receives criticism from both sides who are involved in the issues that separate the parties; nevertheless, the "peacemaker" has no choice but to pursue every effort to reconcile the people who manifest hatred and prejudice toward one another. The Messiah reconciled two groups, Jews and Gentiles and brought peace to those who hated one another by His death on Calvary. We will not always be successful in our efforts to reconcile individuals and groups; but, we should endeavor to do so by our attitudes and our actions. Love is the greatest force that exists in the world. A better world begins with me. Loving my neighbor is the beginning place for the true "peacemakers"