Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9
Peacemaking vs. Peacekeeping
"The problem with "damage control" is that it often creates more damage than it controls." Wisdom Alive
God calls us to be peacemakers, not peacekeepers.
They may look alike, but they are not.
Peacemaking is real peace.
Peacekeeping is a false peace.
Peacemaking
Peacemaking is when we can bring the kingdom of God to rest in a relationship.
It always involves reconciliation and truth.
It is a place of peace where the Holy Spirit resides.
It is ushering in God's kingdom in our midst.
Peacekeeping
Peacekeeping looks a lot like trying to pet a porcupine.
Most of us have people with whom violence is absent as long as everything goes their way.
But it is always in the air or hiding just below the surface. If you "pet" them the wrong way, you will get stuck.
We are peacekeeping when we allow these relationships to exist when speaking into them is within our power.
We can become a place of peace when we seek God and receive the wisdom and courage to speak to them.
And we can become blessed as peacekeepers.
What relationship(s) need to become a place of peace?
What is your role in enabling peacekeeping instead of peacemaking?
What part is your responsibility, and what is God's responsibility?
Lord, You are the Prince of Peace! We ask that you reign in our lives and all of our relationships. May you find us with the courage to be peacemakers. Amen