Seventh Beatitude

Blessed are the peacemakers

The term "blessed" in this context refers to a state of spiritual well-being and prosperity, often associated with divine favor. The concept of it is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where peace (shalom in Hebrew) signifies completeness, wholeness, and harmony with God, others, and oneness. Peacemakers are those who actively seek to reconcile and restore relationships, reflecting God's own nature as the ultimate peacemaker. In the cultural context of first-century Judea, peacemaking was countercultural, as the region was under roman occupation and often experienced conflict. The call to be peacemakers aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized love, forgiveness, and reconciliation. This phrase also connects to the prophecy of the Messiah as the "Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6) and reflects the ministry of Jesus, who came to establish peace between God and humanity. For they will be called sons of God: Being called "sons of God" signifies a special relationship with God, characterized by intimacy and inheritance . In biblical times, being a "son" implied sharing in the character and mission of the father, Thus, peacemakers are recognized as reflecting God's character and are granted the honor of being part of His family. This phrase echoes the old testament understanding of Israel as God's children (Hosea 1:10) and extends to all who embody the values of God's kingdom. The new testament further develops this theme, with believers being adopted as God's children through faith in Christ (Romans 8:14-17). This adoption is not just a title but a transformative identity, calling believers to live out their divine heritage by promoting peace and reconciliation in the world. Understanding Peacemaking: Peacemaking is not merely the absence of conflict but actively working to reconcile and restore relationships. It involves promoting harmony and understanding in all ares of life. Peacemakers as "sons of God": Being called sons of God signifies a close relationship with God, reflecting His character. As peacemakers, believers demonstrate their identity as God's children by embodying His peace. Peacemaking in the world: Christians are called to be peacemakers in their communities and workplaces, serving as ambassadors of Christ's peace and promoting reconciliation in a divided world. The cost of peacemaking: True peacemaking may require sacrifice, humility, and a willingness to forgive. It involves putting other's needs above our own and seeking God's wisdom in difficult situations. Rightly does this beatitude follow on that of the "pure in heart," for it is the absence of all baseness and impurity that gives us the power to make peace. My brothers and sisters the character of our God is so very far above us, but as the children of the Most High God we must daily make it our mission in this life to do our very best to reflect the character and nature of our God! I know that we all fail on a daily basis. But as it says in the book of James: "draw near unto God and He will draw Near to us." We must rely on His strength and wisdom to help us to reflect our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to the world around us. If we rely on our own strength we will fail, we have nothing on our own, only what He provides to us. Everything we have and everything we are comes from our Father in heaven. I will be praying that we will all reflect the brand of peacemaking that can only come from the " Prince of Peace!" I will not fail to mention you all in my prayers and may God bless you and keep you safe. I love you all.