“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God”. Matthew 5:9
The beatitudes (blessings) at the beginning of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount are direct, clear and pithy statements. They stand as they are without illustration or explanation. They are the first words of Jesus’ teaching. Jesus seems to assume that we will all understand them. The beatitude directed to peacemakers is very direct.
The Greek word translated in English as ‘peace makers’ literally mean ‘peace doers’. Those who act, see, embrace and create peace are the ‘doers of peace’. This means being committed to an intentional way of living and the importance of it is captured in the promise made, ‘they will be called children of God’.
Being identified as a child of God is something we all aspire to. An identity so close to that of God that we reflect God’s identity. The children of God can be seen in their doing of peace. The link between activity and identity is clear.
In this present moment, peace is on and off again. Our hopes rise and fall, and people remain vulnerable in continuing conflict that does not seem like peace at all. Peace agreements are not based on being the Children of God, but rather on who has power and who has not. These peace agreements and negotiations, have little, if any connection to ‘peace doing’.
Peace is lost in domestic violence, the abuse of children and the marginalisation of individuals by race or creed. There is no peace in the denial of human rights and flourishing for Australia’s First peoples. Creation does not find peace in pollution, exploitation or destructive development.
The doing or living of peace is multi-level. It is lived out in our closest relationships, in community and church life, in advocacy for justice and reconciliation, and in our appeals for the end to conflict and war. The doing of peace is not easy. It is work and necessitates a deep unwavering commitment to making peace real.
Such doing of peace flows from our heart and is approved by God. Peace doers are blessed. As the children of God peace making is our calling and focus.
God’s peace be with you and remain with you as we do peace together.
Rev John Gilmore, NCCA President