“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” – Matthew 5:9 ESV
Peacekeeping vs. Peacemaking
There is a big difference between keeping and making peace. The blessing in this verse is for those who make peace. Make no mistake—maintaining peace where healthy peace is already present is a worthwhile endeavor. But peacekeeping can often become a cop-out to avoid unwanted conflict. I’m not going to confront this person about their wrongdoing because it will disrupt the peace. That’s not loving, and in fact, may end up causing more harm in the long-term.
Peacemaking is a much higher and holier (read: harder) calling. The peacemaker does not shy away from conflict. They’re willing to step into places that are full of strife, corruption, and every manner of evil and create peace. They recognize that hard conversations, while difficult, are worth the discomfort if they result in greater peace, love, and unity between brothers and sisters.
The Narrow Gate
Later on in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says, “‘You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it’” (Matthew 7:13-14 NLT).
Jesus rarely calls His children to walk the easier path. The things He asks us to do, the qualities He asks us to embody, the places He asks us to go are continually going to challenge us, to dismantle any preconceived notions that life with God is a cakewalk.
But the promise for us when we make the harder choice, to live in obedience to God’s Word no matter what it costs, is that we receive the title son or daughter. We’re welcomed into God’s family. We get to walk side by side with Him, empowered by His Spirit and in peaceful communion with our brothers and sisters.
