Devotion for Tuesday, August 30 (The Beatitudes)

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God (Matthew 5:9)

The prevalent witness of scripture is that to be purveyors of peace is a defining characteristic of the Jesus Way.  This is expressed here in powerful words.  

Still, later in the Gospel of Matthew (10:34) Jesus says, "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword." 

So, which is it?  

One of the guiding interpretive methodologies that I use as a Lutheran is the principle of "both-and" as opposed to "either-or".  For example, we are both saint and sinner.  Jesus was both divine and human.  The message of the Bible is both law and gospel.  

When Jesus says "blessed are the peacemakers" He is giving us a blueprint for discipleship.  In both great and small ways we are encouraged to seek peace.  With our neighbor. With our co-worker. With the person who votes different from us.  Even within our family.

When Jesus says, "do not suppose that I have come to bring peace" I believe it is a "both-and" situation.  Jesus knows that peace is the way of God.  He also knows that his message will, oftentimes, not bring peace.

Jesus is warning those who will follow him that the Jesus Way, the way of peace, will be passionately resisted by the powers of the world that traffic in exclusion, division, and domination.  And this may occur even in our closest relationships, in our families, and with our friends.  

Still, the way of Jesus, the way of peace, is best exemplified when he says, from the cross, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they are doing."

The Jesus Way of peace will challenge you and challenge your relationships.  Yet, seeking peace is what children of God do.  May we be so bold.

Lord of peace, may we find ways to be acolytes of peace in our lives and in your name. Amen.