Historical Context:

 

To understand the significance of Matthew 5:9, it's important to consider the context in which Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount. At the time, Israel was under Roman occupation, and there was widespread social and political unrest. Many Jews longed for a Messiah who would deliver them from oppression and establish a kingdom of peace and justice. In this context, Jesus' teachings offered a radical vision of God's kingdom, which prioritised spiritual transformation and reconciliation over political revolution.

 

How do you navigate when the solution you envision for your challenges diverges from the path that God is presenting?

 

Jesus' words in Matthew 5:9 highlight the importance of actively pursuing peace and reconciliation. Being a peacemaker involves more than just avoiding conflict; it requires proactive efforts to resolve disputes, promote harmony, and cultivate unity among individuals.

 

Jesus pronounces a blessing on peacemakers, declaring that they will be called children of God. This statement carries several layers of meaning:

 

- Spiritual Peace: Peacemakers are those who seek to reconcile individuals with God and with one another. They promote spiritual peace by proclaiming the message of salvation and facilitating reconciliation between God and humanity through Christ. Reconciling men to our Father is one of the greatest exploits we can seek in God.

 

- Interpersonal Peace: Peacemakers also work to reconcile relationships between individuals, families, and communities. They mediate conflicts, promote forgiveness, and foster harmony among people who are divided.

 

- Social Justice: True peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of justice. Peacemakers advocate for social justice and work to address the underlying causes of conflict, inequality, and oppression in society (Proverbs 31:8-9 - “Speak up for those who have no voice, for the justice of all who are dispossessed. Speak up, judge righteously, and defend the cause of the oppressed and the needy.”)

 

- Inner Peace: Peacemakers cultivate inner peace within themselves through prayer, meditation, and spiritual disciplines. They are grounded in a deep sense of peace that transcends external circumstances and empowers them to be agents of reconciliation in the world.

 

Spiritually speaking, peacemakers are:

1. Carriers of peace - “bringing peace into troubled situation.” Jesus brought calm to the storm (Mark 4:35-41)

 

2. Creator of peace - “…and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7). There is a peace you can have in the middle of the storm, that the mind does not and cannot understand.

 

3. Custodians of peace - “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

 

Peace acknowledges that God is in control.

Hear my cry, O God; attend to my prayer.

2 From the end of the earth I will cry to You,

When my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. (Psalm 61:1-2)

 

Peace can be a weapon and a strategy.

For your obedience has become known to all. Therefore I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil. 20 And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.“ (Romans 16:19-20)

 

How can we as believers practically engage in peacemaking?:

 

1. Listen and Understand: Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Actively listen to others, seek to understand their perspectives, and ask clarifying questions to discern the root of issues.

 

2. Communicate Wisely: Choose words carefully, considering their impact on others. Use a gentle tone in communication to diffuse conflicts and promote understanding.

 

3. Control Anger: Avoid responding in anger, as human anger does not align with God’s righteousness. Being slow to anger helps calm quarrels and fosters a peaceful environment.

 

4. Return Good for Evil: In situations of conflict or persecution, strive to respond with kindness and goodness. Sow seeds of peace by showing love even in challenging circumstances.

 

5. Pray for Enemies: Follow Jesus' example by praying for those who persecute you. Pray for their conversion and sanctification, seeking purity and peace in relationships.

 

6. Live at Peace: Strive to live at peace with everyone as much as possible. Pursue holiness, avoid speaking evil, and actively work towards maintaining peace in all interactions.

 

7. Stand Firm in Truth: While promoting peace, stand by convictions based on God's Word. Speak truth in love, aiming to reflect Christ-like character in all interactions.

 

By embodying the qualities of a peacemaker in daily life through active listening, wise communication, control of anger, and a commitment to promoting peace even in challenging situations, we can effectively apply the profound message of Matthew 5:9 in our interactions with others and our communities.

 

 

Father, help me to be a vessel that reconcile people with You and with others. I receive the grace to cultivate inner peace through prayer and meditation on Your word. Let Your peace, which passes all understanding, guard my hearts and my thoughts in Christ Jesus. IJN