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A Peacemaker’s Journey: Pursuing Peace Actively

Kevin Peck sharing a powerful message on "Peacemakers" at The Gathering Place church

In a world often marked by division, misunderstandings, and conflict, the call to be a peacemaker is more relevant than ever. The statement, “A peacemaker actively pursues peace rather than passively waiting for others to reconcile with them,” captures the essence of what it means to live out this call. It challenges us to take initiative, embrace humility, and foster reconciliation in a way that reflects God’s heart. But what does this look like in practice? Let’s explore.


1. What It Means to Pursue Peace Actively

The word “pursue” is action-oriented. It implies effort, intentionality, and movement. A peacemaker doesn’t sit idly by, waiting for others to come forward and make amends. Instead, they take the first step, even when it’s uncomfortable or seemingly undeserved. This proactive approach mirrors God’s own actions toward humanity. Romans 5:8 reminds us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” God initiated reconciliation with us—an undeserving world—and calls us to follow His example.


2. Letting Go of Pride and Embracing Humility

One of the greatest barriers to peace is pride. How often do we hold grudges or refuse to reach out because we believe someone else should take the first step? Active peacemaking requires a willingness to set aside pride and embrace humility. It means saying, “I value our relationship more than my need to be right.”

This kind of humility is not a sign of weakness but of strength. It’s the ability to prioritize reconciliation over personal comfort, recognizing that peace is worth the effort. As Philippians 2:3-4 teaches, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”


3. Building Bridges Instead of Walls

Peacemakers are bridge builders. They create pathways for understanding, connection, and healing. Think of a bridge spanning a deep divide, allowing two sides to come together. Without the bridge, the gap remains—but building it requires effort, resources, and time.

In relationships, this might look like:

  • Initiating a difficult conversation to address a misunderstanding.
  • Listening actively to another’s perspective without jumping to conclusions.
  • Extending forgiveness, even when it isn’t sought.

Bridges aren’t built overnight, and sometimes the process is messy. But the result—restored relationships and a sense of unity—is worth the investment.


4. Living Out the Gospel Through Peacemaking

Peacemaking isn’t just about resolving interpersonal conflicts; it’s a way of living out the gospel. As Christians, we are called to reconcile others not only to each other but ultimately to God. 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 reminds us, “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.”

When you take the initiative to pursue peace, you’re reflecting God’s character and pointing others toward His love and grace. Your actions become a tangible expression of the gospel in a world that desperately needs it.


5. Practical Steps to Be a Peacemaker

Becoming an active peacemaker doesn’t happen by accident. Here are some practical steps to get started:

  1. Pray for wisdom and guidance: Ask God to help you see situations clearly and to give you the courage to take the first step.
  2. Evaluate your own heart: Are there grudges or unresolved conflicts you’ve been avoiding? Begin by addressing these.
  3. Initiate reconciliation: Reach out to those you’ve had disagreements with. Even a simple, sincere message can open the door to healing.
  4. Practice active listening: Sometimes, the best way to pursue peace is simply to listen and validate someone’s feelings.
  5. Extend forgiveness: Forgiveness isn’t about excusing wrongs but about releasing the hold they have on you and choosing to move forward.

6. The Reward of Pursuing Peace

Peacemaking isn’t always easy, and it doesn’t guarantee that every conflict will be resolved. But the effort itself is deeply rewarding. Matthew 5:9 promises, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” When you pursue peace, you reflect God’s nature and draw closer to Him. You also create opportunities for transformation—in yourself, in others, and in your community.


Final Thoughts

Being a peacemaker is more than a passive desire for harmony; it’s an active, intentional effort to bring people together, heal divisions, and reflect God’s love. When you take the first step toward peace, you’re living out your faith in a powerful way. So, let’s embrace the challenge of pursuing peace—not as a distant ideal, but as a daily mission. After all, true peace begins with us.

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