(by pastor Jean)

“Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God” (Matt 5:9; NKJV). Jesus is our ultimate example of a peacemaker because He came to earth to bring peace between God and man, which He achieved through His death on the cross. He also broke down the hostility between Jews and Gentiles (Eph 2:14-18). In addition, He lived his life in peace (for example, Matt 8:23-27), which is why He is called the Prince of Peace (Isa 9:6). If we are to be peacemakers too then we must have the peace of God in our hearts. If we are Christians then we know that Jesus actually bequeathed His peace to us, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). Not only that, but when we became born again, we invited Jehovah Shalom (or the Lord is peace, Judges 6:24) into our hearts. As a result of that regeneration the fruit of peace will grow in our lives if we cooperate with the Holy Spirit, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” (Gal 5:22; NKJV). This kind of peace can be enjoyed regardless of our circumstances whether good or bad. It is because we have the peace of God in our lives that we can be peace makers. There are several scriptures that speak to this topic, for example, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men” (Rom 12:18; NKJV). Let’s share the peace of God which we enjoy with those around us today; be a peacemaker and you will be blessed (Matt 5:9).