Who are the peacemakers? Without conflict… there’d be no need for peacemakers. But, we’re unlikely to always avoid strife… so there must be peacemakers. Ignoring problems or pretending everything is okay when in fact it’s not—doesn’t make one a peacemaker. Who does Jesus call the peacemakers?
Let’s look at the word peacemaker. It’s a compound word composed of two very common words… “peace” and “maker.” Shalom is the Hebrew word for peace. Often used as a greeting, such as “hello” or in departure much like “goodbye”. It’s a term associated with health, harmony, prosperity, and completeness. Shalom denotes perfect welfare, tranquility, fulfillment, free of trouble, and liberation from all that blocks contentment.
The term “make” comes from the Greek verb poieó—meaning— “to do” or “to make”. It’s a word of action, energy and initiative. It denotes that peace must be made. And that peace rarely happens by chance or accident after a conflict. It’s worth recalling that peace in the Bible is always based on justice and righteousness. For where justice prevails and righteousness rules…there also is peace.
Taken together, “peace” and “makers,” describe people who actively pursue peace. This includes a pursuit of more than the avoidance of strife… or merely seeking to appease those in disagreement. A peacemaker doesn’t try to accommodate wrong. But rather enforces the blessedness of God by producing a right solution in each situation.
According to Jesus, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6 KJV), peacemakers are those people who actively work to reconcile people to God and to one another. For peacemakers:
- have integrity,
- listen without taking sides,
- love based on Jesus’ model of forgiveness,
- pray for wisdom, guidance, understanding, and courage,
- recognize deceit and honesty,
- allow ethical principles to inform their decision-making, and are
- fruitful by glorifying God with just and right results.
Matthew 5:9 (KJV) tells us that Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. May we be the peacemakers—this Holiday season—as we seek peace on earth and goodwill towards all.
God Bless… I am Wiley’s granddaughter.