Beatitude 7: Peacemakers
Bible Readings
Take a few minutes to read the Bible verses listed and ask the Holy Spirit to lead you in how this verse applies to you this week.
Memory Verse
God blesses those people who make peace. They will be called his children! (CEV)
What did you think about when you read today’s verse about Jesus talking about peace? Did you instantly hold up two fingers, making the “peace sign?" Maybe your mind went to a story you’ve heard on the news about war. One way to define a peacemaker is anyone who can make things better between two people. God, as our loving heavenly Father, wants each of us to do our part to bring peace to the world. When each child of God does their part, the love of God spreads.
Jesus was a peacemaker. Isaiah 9:6 predicted he would be known as the “Prince of Peace.” Romans 5:10 says that Jesus was a peacemaker between God and us. That verse even says that we were God’s enemies! But we are now at peace with God and no longer enemies with him because his Son, Jesus, died for us.
Jesus also made peace by including other people who were usually avoided. One example is Matthew 9:10-13, where Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners. These were two groups of people that the religious leaders avoided. They thought if Jesus was the Messiah, he should not be around bad people. But Jesus reminds them that he came for those people who need the peace of his salvation.
As God’s children, we are called to be peacemakers too. We can actively look for ways to live like Jesus at home, school, and our community. Jesus saw all people (even those who were not kind) as God’s children and wanted to show them a better way to live through God’s peace. You don’t have to do it alone. Ask God for wisdom on how to get along better with others (like your brother or sister), be welcoming to those on the outside of your group, and be friendly with classmates who are not always nice.
Prayer
Dear God, thank you for giving us peace through Jesus. Show me how to live like a peacemaker. Help me to see others as your children. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Related Resources
Natasha Menifee
Natasha Menifee is an educator, writer and most importantly a child of God. She has taught in public schools for 12 years and holds two master's degrees from Georgetown College in Learning & Behavior Disorders and Teacher Leadership. Natasha also serves as the Christian Education Director at her church. She is the proud mother of two daughters. For more information about her, visit www.natashamenifee.com.