Be Peacemakers

In September, 2012, then Pope Benedict XVI urged Middle Eastern Christians to work for peace.  His sermon was delivered in Lebanon as civil war raged next door in neighboring Syria.  This is the walk of a true Christian.  Christ desires unity and reconciliation especially between Christians.  Part of Sunday's reading reminds us to be the peacemakers.....true Christians. Peacemakers are those who work to resolve conflicts between brothers or enemies. 

Matthew 5:22-26   But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgement.  Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, "Raca" is answerable to the court.  And anyone who says, "You fool!" will be in danger of the fire of hell.  "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar.  First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.  "Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court.  Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand yo over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison.  Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.        


Our Lord has always favored reconciliation and unity that He tells a person to leave his gifts at the altar and reconcile with an angry brother.  There are always conflicts around us.  It's not always easy to reconcile with an angry brother or sister. It's not always easy to take the high road, but it's not impossible.  Reconciliation is always possible.  

When I was wrong, I found the courage through Christ to admit my wrong; and even when I was right, I sought humility through Christ to apologize.....all for the sake of peace and unity.  Does it matter if the other person showed smugness in front of me and brag to everyone that I was wrong?  No.  When one truly has the Holy Spirit in them, what can hurt them? Those who sow peace will reap a harvest of righteousness (James 3:18).

Matthew 5:9  Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.