9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Christians are called to be those who bring people together, not those who gossip or tear others down and cause war. War has been happening for thousands of thousands of years, and it is one of the patterns of this world. The peace God wants us to have isnʼt an emotional state of oneness with others, but a true fellowship where wholeness is achieved.
The [original language] word is more of a concept: shalom. When we strive to do everything we can to be ambassadors of shalom we are called sons of God.
I wonder if the vitriol we find on social media can be countered by the salty and peacemaking injection of Christian witness?
Often we are more angry and demeaning to one another than the world is to one another— all behind the safety of our laptop screens. I have made it a personal goal to build relationships with those I disagree with and to engage them personally before digitally—all while maintaining what I believe without apology or compromise.
We have much work to do in this regard, but voices like Ray Ortlund, Jr and others are setting a great example for all believers in avoiding brawling and clamor.
These are the marks of the citizens of Godʼs Kingdom.
When we are living this BACKWARDS life on earth, then verses 10 and 11 will ALWAYS be the result
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousnessʼ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
#6 may surprise you, but according to Jesus, a characteristic of Christians is…
James Travis 