Blessed Are the Peacemakers
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If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.
-- Romans 12:18 (NKJV)
There is an epidemic of sorts spreading like fire among the masses. In a world of constant notifications via social media and real time news reporting, nearly everyone has something to say. It is so easy to rattle off opinions or false statements for worldwide consumption. People “go viral” for derogatory comments and accusations with little credence to support them. Unfortunately, this isn’t isolated to one demographic, religion, or political ideology. The chaos is nearly everywhere.
The merits of holding one’s tongue have gotten lost against a backdrop of modern-day mayhem. Instead of using our words wisely, the common course is to accuse, incite, and inflame precarious situations. This manner of action isn’t at all Biblical. We are called to take a stand for justice, yet most of the banter is little more than personal attacks and additional noise. So, how can we be the peacemakers Jesus called blessed?
Merriam-Webster defines a peacemaker as one who makes peace especially by reconciling parties at variance. As Christians, we are called to reconcile people to Christ. To fulfill this calling, we may have to implement the virtue of silence. The best sermons are practiced, not preached. We must resist the temptation to have the last word and instead “go about doing good,” which speaks far louder than anything we say. We can only entice others toward the peace available through Jesus when we model Christlike behavior.
There are several examples in the Bible where Jesus did not answer those who opposed Him. Our Savior did not justify Himself to anyone. We should live peaceably with all men. Not just people who look like us. Not merely those who think like us. Living peaceably even includes individuals who don’t worship like us.
It is possible to choose kindness. It is possible to speak with a civil tongue yet disagree. If we are to be beacons on a hill, we can’t succumb to the breakdown of civil discourse. We must choose to sow words of peace, not discord. Our words should build people up, not destroy them. It is kindness and consideration that change hearts. Jesus drew sinners (Zacchaeus, the woman at the well) unto Him with truth in love, not condemnation.
Let peace on earth begin with us.
Question for Reflection:
Recall a time when an argument was futile. Would a calmer approach have been more productive?
