Shortly before the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September, we are going to have a closer look at the meaning of peace. So that the day is more than just an opportunity for reflection, District Apostle Helper Helge Mutschler has written down a few thoughts on how we can all become peacemakers.
During a ministers’ meeting once, a heated discussion developed over an issue in the congregation. The discussion was no longer about what we had been discussing, but about who was right. Two Priests wanted to defuse the situation: “It’s not worth the fight.” But the argument had got out of hand. An older minister arrived late for the meeting and sat down at the table. The others immediately wanted to drag him into the argument, but he remained silent. Strangely enough, the bickering stopped a few minutes later. Someone asked him, “Why didn’t we manage to defuse the situation and restore peace? You, on the other hand, just sit down and the argument dissolves.” He said, “I prayed silently and praised and glorified Christ. Where Christ is praised, there is no room for strife.”
Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9: 6), is the way to peace. When He gave His life on the cross, He established peace between God and humankind. This peace is always pronounced over the congregation when we hear the good news, “The peace of the Risen One be with you!”
Peace is both a gift and a mission. Be a peacemaker! We cannot create peace on our own, but we can ask God for peace. Prayer works. And praying for peace works too!
Let us specifically ask God for humility, gentleness, and patience (Ephesians 4: 2).
Humility is required on the path to peace. Humility means that I do not only think of myself, but I have respect for you, because you are a gift from God. I see you as an equal and not in a condescending manner. I allow you to be as you are and am happy about your uniqueness. I have respect for what is important to you. I make a point of listening to you actively and letting you finish. I accept your justified criticism. I am prepared to change my mind. I admit when I am to blame and ask for your forgiveness.
Gentleness is the path to peace. Gentleness means that I am kind to you because God is kind to me. I am friendly and considerate. I do not say unkind things about you behind your back but say good things about you. I express my gratitude to you. I praise you. I share with you. I pray for you.
It takes patience to create peace. Patience means that I bear with you. After all, God has patience with me. I am considerate, empathetic, understanding, gracious, and forgiving. I do not judge you but am generous and easy-going when it comes to your quirks and shortcomings. I know when to speak and when to keep silent. I think first before I react. I do not pour oil on the fire, but water. I will not insist on my rights and accept the fact that peace will cost me something. And patience means: I forgive you because God forgives me too.
Humility, gentleness, and patience are the path to peace. And then God binds us together in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4: 3). This is how unity is born in diversity and diversity in unity.
Do you want to be happy? Then be a peacemaker. Because people who work to bring peace are happy (Matthew 5: 9).
Photo: velishchuk – stock.adobe.com