Blessed are the peacemakers! What does Jesus mean by peace? It isn’t just the absence of conflict. It is a state of wholeness, flourishing, and active reconciliation with God. It isn’t about “moving on,” which often leaves the underlying issues untouched. Shalom is the courage to rebuild broken bridges rather than just stopping the fight. Peace requires ongoing maintenance to address behaviors directly and healthily. When we look for the truth, we acknowledge the pain caused and engage with the world through God’s perspective. We can bless others with hope.
We often avoid this path of peace because the cost of repair is high. We can’t just ignore the problems with our relationships. We need to apply grace to mend relationships. We can ask for God’s truth and recognize Him as our redeemer and savior who takes away sin and provides power to sustain peace. We can find the strength to pray for courage for what we have broken.
The Prayer for Confession last week was: “Gracious God, you call us to be peacemakers, to be children of light in the world. You bless the peacemakers, but we have avoided reconciliation where we have caused harm. Have mercy on us and forgive us. In your transforming grace, give us courage to make peace and repair what we have broken.”
All of this information will help us discover who we are and how we need to move forward for peace in our lives and with others. When we pass the peace during a worship service, we are trying to pass on this idea of peace from God. God, please be with us this week as we are working through how we can bless others.
Reflections from Deborah Kelly. Share your reflections with deborah@rbcommunity.org and let me know your thoughts.