There seems to be so much more division today. There is hardly anything that people can seem to agree on. And the seeds of division continue to be sown.
There are divisions in:
- politics
- churches
- families
- work places
- schools
- neighborhoods
- social media
Where do you see division prevalent in the places you live, work, and play?
Jesus says, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” He calls us to actively promote peace and reconciliation. Instead of sowing the seeds of division, he invites us to sow the seeds of peace. What can you do to help people come together?
Look for commonalities! One thing I have learned is that we are more alike than we are different. We all have the same basic needs. Dealing with our differences starts with recognizing what we share in common.
Defuse the situation! This is about being the bigger person. It is stopping the crazy cycle. That is when someone insults you, you respond in kind, which leads them to respond in kind, which … See how it goes. It takes one person to step up and say “no” to stop the cycle by not responding in kind.
Stop assuming motives! You can hear what another person said and see what they did. But that does not mean you know why they said what they said or did what they did. The motives we conjure up rarely reflect positively on another. We assume the worse in their motives. Instead, try to give them the benefit of the doubt. Recognize that their heart is in the right place.
Ask for forgiveness! How does the saying go? It takes two to tango. It is rare that only one party contributed to the conflict. One party may be more responsible. But don’t wait for them to admit their fault. Confess your part. Seek forgiveness for reconciliation.
Participate in the Lord’s Supper! Another name for this meal is “Communion.” This meal brings us communion with God. We are receiving God’s forgiveness and restoration from the division that exists between him and us. As we are being reconciled to God it will lead to communion with others as well.
What can you do today to be a peacemaker?
Holly says
Thanks for your ministry!!