Getting Ready-21 Days of PrayerSample

Jesus’ greatest sermon was given in Matthew 5, called the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus’ proclamations are oftentimes mistakenly interpreted as behavioral statements that will make us feel better and be better. A way to be blessed in this life. But Jesus was proclaiming so much more than fleeting happiness, wealth, success, etc. God was turning Israel and the world upside down through the ministry of Jesus, showing us a new way of discipleship. 

Jesus was paving the way through his ministry to our deep and sustaining calling as Christ followers. Billy Graham said, “To be a peacemaker, you must know the peace giver.” Jesus came as our peace. Not to give us peace, but to truly be our peace. He came to restore us to wholeness, giving us a peace that sustains us each day when we lean into Him. 

The blessed life we are called to isn’t reserved for some day when we get to heaven, after death. The blessed life is available to us right now. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” We have the opportunity to be peacemakers as followers of Jesus. What does that mean? Peace is not merely a gift to be received. It is also a task to be undertaken. In order to be true peacemakers, we must educate ourselves in compassion, solidarity, working together, in cooperation and conflict resolution. To be a peacemaker is to be an active participant! 

Challenge: I don’t know where you are today. Maybe you need to open yourself up to know Jesus, the peace giver. Or maybe you are called to the task of being a true peacemaker. Take a step in the direction God is calling you to. Don’t miss out!

Prayer: God, thank you for being the Waymaker. You are the peace giver. Help me to be a peacemaker in my family, my church, and my community. Speak to my heart specifically in what you are calling me to as a peacemaker! I want to see you move in my life.