The beatitudes are what introduce the Sermon on the Mount. They serve as a framework or a starting place for the hearers of the message. They also serve as a reminder of the basic characteristics of a follower of God. They teach us so much about faith. They teach us how faith begins poor in spirit, with mourning and meekness. They teach us how faith grows, hungers and thirsts after righteousness. They teach us how faith matures merciful, pure in heart, and peacemakers. They also teach us how faith is tested by persecution. Among them is the concept of a peacemaker. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matt. 5:9).
What does it mean to be a peacemaker, and how does it affect our lives? A peacemaker is a person who is actively seeking to establish and maintain peace. They don’t make war or create conflicts with others. They seek to resolve conflicts and eliminate all hostility. They have a positive force for good and all that is profitable for mankind. Peacemakers are those who demonstrate peace in their lives. In that, they are at peace with God. “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom. 5:1). Sin separates us from God and makes us enemies. “You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God” (Jas. 4:4).
Peacemakers are at peace with others. “So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another” (Rom. 14:19). “Finally, brethren, rejoice, be made complete, be comforted, be like-minded, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you” (2 Cor. 13:11).
Peacemakers are at peace with themselves. “My son, do not forget my teaching, But let your heart keep my commandments; For length of days and years of life And peace they will add to you” (Prov. 3:1-2). “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful” (Col. 3:15).
The ultimate work of God is making peace between Himself and mankind. “Now the God of peace be with you all” (Rom. 15:33). If God is with us, He can help us maintain peace. “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet” (Rom. 16:20a). God resolves the war to bring peace to our lives. “The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you” (Phil. 4:9). Our trusting obedience in following His teachings will produce peace in our lives. We need to do our part to maintain the peace He has blessed us with and also show others the way of peace.
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