Considering the current state of our country can be a worrisome and troubling undertaking. That might even be true in our own lives. As Christians, in the midst of conflict, chaos, and confusion, we should be pursuing peace. This pursuit is rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the character of our God. In Matthew 5:9, Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” When we live as peacemakers and actively pursue peaceful lives, communities, and relationships, we align ourselves with the God who offers “peace which surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).
Here is the problem with that, however: many times, instead of pursuing peace, we are guilty of destroying it. Through how we interact with other people, both online and in person, we are often more than capable of demolishing peace rather than promoting and preserving it. What are some ways that we often stray from being “peacemakers”? While the next few ideas are not original with me, I believe they are so very relevant.
First, instead of being “peacemakers,” we sometimes tend to be “peace-fakers.” “Peace-fakers” pretend that everything is okay when it is not, because they want to avoid conflict at all costs. Instead of pursuing and promoting genuine peace, a “peace-faker” conceals their hurt by being passive-aggressive or giving the cold shoulder. “Peacefakers” will never establish peace; instead, they do their best to sweep everything under the rug.
Second, instead of being “peacemakers,” we sometimes tend to be “peace-breakers.” “Peace-breakers” are individuals who feel as if their point of view on any subject is absolutely correct. They are so sure of their position that they are willing to do whatever it takes to force others to accept their opinion. Even though this group may not intend to hurt others, their careless words, insensitivity, and judgmental attitudes result only in tension, conflict, and hurt feelings. “Peace-breakers” will never build peaceful communities; they will only tear them down.
Third, instead of being “peacemakers,” we sometimes tend to be “peace-takers.” These are individuals who look to rob others of the peace they have. It’s like the phrase, “If Mom is not happy, then nobody is happy.” “Peace-takers” carry an attitude that says, “If my life can’t be at peace, nobody else’s can either.” As a result, they make others miserable through their attitudes and negative behavior.
Instead of being “peace-fakers,” “peace-breakers,” or “peace-takers,” in the midst of the difficulty and injustice that we see in the world today, let’s make every possible effort to be “peacemakers.” A peaceful community stems from each person making every effort to “live peaceably with all” (Romans 12:18). If we want to live peaceful lives, we must start from within, constantly asking ourselves, “What can I do to promote peace where I have been planted?” Instead of ignoring conflict, let’s have open, honest, respectful conversations. Instead of forcing others to agree with us, let’s be gentle, kind, and wise. Instead of making others miserable by robbing their peace, let’s be people who promote and pursue peace daily.
Here is my question to you: what are you doing to actively pursue peace in your life, family, congregation, workplace, or school? Don’t be a “peace-faker,” “peace-breaker,” or “peace-taker.” As we interact with others daily, no matter how hard it might be, let’s decide to be “peacemakers.” Let’s live out the teachings of Jesus and the commands of our God in the way that we speak, the decisions that we make, how we interact with others.
-Tyler Alverson
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