Blessed Are The Peacemakers
The Beatles wrote a song entitled, “We Can Work It Out.” Some of the lyrics were, “Think of what you're saying. You can get it wrong and still you think that it's alright. Think of what I'm saying, we can work it out and get it straight, or say good night. We can work it out.”
We live in a world where many seem to take joy from saying outrageous things to provoke others to witty retorts or worse. Is it possible that we have allowed our personal interests to override civility and kindness towards one another? Isn’t it worthwhile to stifle that arrogant sarcasm and angry reply and do what the Bible suggests that we do? The Bible suggests that we follow peace with all men (Hebrews 12:14). It further says that love covers all kinds of sins (1 Peter 4:8). In addition, the Bible declares that the peacemakers shall be called God’s children (Matthew 5:9).
There is a great satisfaction in “owning” one’s opponent. Satisfaction with making the other get angry was a staple in the black community when one played the “dozens.” The loser was the one who lost his composure to the great amusement of the audience. Sadly, this art has given away to violent confrontations. But we don’t have to continue the escalations.
Let us decide here and now that despite others’ hurtful words, angry diatribes, or savage rejoinders that we will receive our blessings from being peacemakers. As Rodney King said in May 1992 after a public beating, “I just want to say – you know – can we, can we all get along?” Let’s be peacemakers and not peace takers.
Hebrews 12:14
New International Version
14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord
1 Peter 4:8
King James Version
8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
Matthew 5:9
New International Version
9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
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