Welcome back to our study of the Beatitudes. I hope you are enjoying studying the Beatitudes as much as I am. A quick recap: The Beatitudes is where Jesus shares how we are to respond to others and God. It is the Code of Conduct for Jesus- Followers. Blessed means to be happy, to be envied; “An inner satisfaction and sufficiency that does not depend on outward circumstances for happiness.” (Warren Weirsbe)

If we want our life to reflect that level of Blessed, then as His followers and disciples, we need to know and follow what Jesus teaches us. Today we are looking at:

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
Matthew 5:9

I think we can all agree that Jesus is the ultimate Peacemaker and we need to follow His example.

1. Jesus came to bring peace between God and man.

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith,
we have peace (reconciliation) with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Romans 5:1 {definitions mine}

A big part of being a Jesus-Follower is bringing those around us into that peace with God. In this crazy, troubled world we are to be peacemakers and channels for God’s mercy and peace.

But first, as always, we need to check our own heart and life. We cannot share what we do not have.
We need to have peace in our soul, so we can actively promote peace in others and in situations.

To have peace with God is to have nothing - no sin, no guilt, no condemnation - that would build a wall between us. We are of one heart. We are in sync with each other.

One definition of “peacemaker” is “pacific” (like the ocean, but not) which means, to be peaceful in character and intent.

I see that so clearly in the life of Jesus, don’t you? He was always going away to be with His Father, which I’m sure brought the peace He needed living on this crazy planet with those crazy disciples, never mind everyone else. Also, everything He did was missional and never hurried.

How are we doing with creating a time and space to get with God and let Him fill us with His peace? I know lately I have had to be really diligent with that because life could be an avalanche that buries me.

Let’s run after faith, love and peace together!

“Flee from evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love
and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
2 Timothy 2:22

2. Jesus is the Son of God.

We are invited to join the Family of God and as a son or daughter of the King, we can share in His nature and purpose. We can resemble God’s character more and more. We can live in faith. We have an inheritance.

As an ambassador of God’s family we have some big shoes to fill. Hebrews 12:14 reminds us to: “Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord.”

We need to follow Jesus’ example of restoring broken relationships to God, and living a balanced life. A life where our peace flows through it instead of chaos and overwhelm.

I think this is so important, not just for us - I don’t want to lose sight of Jesus - but also for those around us to be able to see Jesus in and through us.

As we are preparing for Christmas and celebrating the birth of Jesus, how perfect is it that we are talking about what it looks like to be peacemakers and sons of God?!! What a great opportunity to walk this out at our family gatherings, in stores, on the road (I’m looking at you, Dean). ;)

“Let the peace (clean-heart needed) of Christ rule (to govern) in your hearts.
Since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
Colossians 3:15 {definitions mine}

Jesus became the Prince of Peace so that we, His children, may become peacemakers.

So, Child of God, go and not only fight your peace but work for peace! Have a great day!
All My Love ~
Jodi xo

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