Blessed are the peace makers

Many years ago (in the previous century), a friend and I and my two young children vacationed in Disney World. I had been previously, but it was a new experience for the others. I love Disney!

We were blessed to have accommodations in the park and could conveniently ride a tram to and from our lodging.We had a great time with one terrifying exception.

After an enjoyable evening in the park, we were strolling toward the exit when a sudden thunder storm struck us with frightening force. Strong winds and heavy rain buffeted as lightening ripped through the night sky. My friend took my children toward the tram stop while I returned the stroller to the drop off point. We agreed to meet at the tram,

But, when I got to the tram stop, they weren’t there…

I searched up and down the sidewalk–my children and my friend were missing! Terrified, I raced back to where we had parted and re-traced the path back to the tram stop.

I couldn’t my children or my friend.

Pounding heart, rasping breath, I paced the same sidewalk again. “Where could they be?”

This was before everyone had cell phones so I couldn’t call them. The park was closing. In desperation, I took the last tram back to our motel.

There they were, waiting for me. I sobbed with relief and then I lit into my friend. “You were supposed to wait for me. I’ve been searching everywhere!”

I didn’t give her a chance to explain or apologize. In my anger and fear, I kept chastising her.

Finally my nine year old son intervened saying, “But, we’re all okay and we’re together. Can’t we just forget it now?”

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

Matthew 5:9

It has been more than 25 years since this incident and I still remember the sharp prod of being put in my place by my nine year old son. He was the perfect example of a peace maker.

Are you a peacemaker?

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. Colossians 3:15

What are some characteristics of a peacemaker?

  • Christ in our hearts.
  • Loving one another as Christ loves us.
  • Thinking before we speak.
  • Looking for the best in others.
  • Recognizing that we are not always right in every situation.
What other characteristics do you attribute to peacemakers?

Have you ever been in a situation similar to mine?

Has someone taught you a lesson about being a peacemaker?

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5:22

Wishing you a blessed week, my friends, and the opportunity to be a peacemaker.

8 Comments

  1. You just did teach me my friend. Ever been awakened from a nap when you’re exhausted? You just know your loved one is in peril, but when you round the corner you realize it’s only a stuck popcorn kernel. Yes, blessed are the peacemakers. And forgiven are those who need to remember what a peacemaker should be like. 🙂

    1. Katherine Pasour says:

      Thanks for the chuckle, J.D. Popcorn kernel, indeed–but, I know what you mean. I’m thankful to have a sweet son who has continued to be a peacemaker and I still learn that lesson from him on occasion! God is still working on me and I’m thankful.

  2. Isn’t amazing how those hard-earned life lessons stick in our memories. Thanks for sharing!

    1. Katherine Pasour says:

      Yes, we are blessed that God doesn’t give up on us and sends us family and friends to provide His message. Wishing you a blessed week!

  3. How humbling! Those situations require me to humbly admit my not-so-needed frustration and apologize. But I have found the Holy Spirit grants such peace in those moments of accepting the words from a peacemaker who reminds us to look more like Christ.

    1. Katherine Pasour says:

      I agree 100%, Emily. And, I remember those times when God (or His messenger) nudged or pushed when necessary, to get me to do the right thing–APOLOGIZE! I’m so thankful for the gift of the Holy Spirit to guide our journey. Thank you for your encouragement.

  4. Thanks Katherine! I liked your characteristics of peacemakers. I’d add wait for the right timing. Waiting is not doing nothing, but giving God time to work on hearts.

    1. Katherine Pasour says:

      Wonderful advice, Marilyn. Thank you for reminding us that waiting shows our trust in the Lord’s plan. I needed that reminder.

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