Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God (Matthew 5:9).
Children often reflect the mannerisms of their parents, even if they don’t physically resemble them. When we reflect God’s characteristics (his peace in this case), others will recognize a family resemblance and identify us as his children. In one of his many confrontations with religious people, Jesus boldly accuses them, saying, “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires (John 8:44a). The Jews he is speaking to claim to be sons of God, but their character doesn’t match their claim. This beatitude isn’t about keeping the peace but making it. As God’s children, we are called to reflect his peace by allowing him to create his peace in us.
The Holy Spirit does what the law can’t, enabling us to resemble our Heavenly Father. “The law can define and identify sin, but it cannot provide the power to resist sin. Nor does the law instill within people the concerns, desires, and character of God.” 1
- What are the differences between keeping peace and making peace?
- How would others describe your personality? Are you known as a person of peace?
- How do your interactions with others accurately reflect God’s character?
Lord Jesus, you are the Prince of Peace. Help us be honest with ourselves about what we're sowing! Give us the desire, discipline, and diligence to be people of peace. Transform us by the power of the Holy Spirit into people who sow peace, trusting that you will bring a harvest of peace and righteousness. Thank you that we are no longer enslaved to sin. You have adopted us as your own! Help us display the family resemblance of your good character, not by trying hard or doing better, but by yielding our will to yours.
And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace (James 3:18).
For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” (Romans 8:15).
Footnotes
- John D. Barry, et al, Faithlife Study Bible (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2012, 2016), Ga 5:18.
