GraceCreates

by Jon Walker

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” Matthew 5:9 (NIV)

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With every step we take today, we can proclaim the good news of peace with God (Ephesians 6:15).

Wherever we go, we can be peacemakers, helping others to make peace with God and to make peace with one another. We are able to tell everyone we meet—sometimes even using words—that God is the source of our peace, that mercy triumphs over judgment.

The Holy Spirit empowers us to explain Jesus is our peace: “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility . . .” (Ephesians 2:14 NIV).

We proclaim that we can rest peacefully in God’s hands, knowing “neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38–39 NIV).

Jesus, who is our peace, also guides “our feet into the path of peace.” It is a peace that “transcends all understanding,” a peace based on our confidence in God; forged in his forgiveness and strengthened by the heart of a Father (Luke 1:79 NIV; Philippians 4:7 NIV; see also Proverbs 3:5–6).

This bond of peace brings us together as a body (Ephesians 4:1–6 NIV).

But it is possible to miss God’s peace and Jesus is grieved when we do: “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes” (Luke 19:42 NIV).

And that is why we are peace-lights, no longer hidden, but shining from “a city on a hill.” “In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14, 16 NIV).

This article is excerpted from the book, “Growing with Purpose: Connecting with God Every Day.” Copyrighted 2010 by Jon Walker. Used by permission.