June 12, 2022 - INSCRIPTIONS FROM THE HEART

By Pastor Immanuel Garcera

Matthew 5:9 IFH

Peace is a fragile thing. With differing views, upbringings, pre-conceived notions, chemistries, and general differences, it can be challenging to have peace when we're dealing with people. Yet the Bible tells us that "blessed are those who are peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God." But see, peace cannot be made without first having some kind of friction – peace cannot be made by turning a blind eye to conflicts.

Culturally, I know as Filipinos it can be easier to ignore a point of friction between people, sweep things under the rug or turn a blind eye towards conflict for the sake of peace. But are issues actually resolved in this way? As inconvenient as it may be, the role of a peacemaker is an active one, not a passive one. We are called to "make peace" not "ignore conflict." This could be between us and others or being a third-party mediator between others.

The hard work of a peacemaker is stepping into conflicts that need resolving. Addressing the differences, the preconceived notions, the chemistries between people that make it difficult to have peace -- yet nonetheless, these things need to be reconciled. This takes courage, boldness, a servant's heart and yes of course humility. Let's look to Jesus as our prime example of what it means to be a peacemaker (in a sense) and remember Paul’s words in the Bible, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18, NIV)

Church, let us work towards peace within our members.

To God be the glory!