How to Tell People About Jesus: Loving Our Neighbors

In a world often divided by differences, there's a simple yet profound message that has the power to transform lives and communities: love your neighbor. But what does this really mean, and how can we put it into practice in our daily lives?

The concept of loving our neighbors isn't just a nice suggestion – it's at the very heart of what it means to follow Jesus. When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus responded that we should love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and love our neighbors as ourselves. These two commandments are inextricably linked. We can't truly love God without loving the people He created in His image.

But who exactly is our neighbor? In the famous parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus challenged the notion that our neighbors are only those who are like us or those we're comfortable with. He deliberately chose a Samaritan – someone who would have been considered socially unacceptable by his audience – as the hero of the story. This teaches us that our "neighbors" include everyone, even those we might consider outsiders or enemies.

In our modern context, who are the "Samaritans" in our lives? Who are the people we find it difficult to love or accept? They might be individuals from different cultural backgrounds, those with opposing political views, or people whose lifestyles we don't agree with. Loving our neighbors means extending compassion and kindness to everyone, especially those who are different from us or those society marginalizes.

This kind of love isn't always easy or comfortable. It often requires us to step out of our comfort zones and confront our own biases and prejudices. But this is precisely the kind of love that Jesus modeled for us. He consistently reached out to those on the fringes of society – the sick, the poor, the outcasts. He didn't wait for people to clean up their lives before showing them love; He loved them right where they were.

There's a powerful quote from Martin Luther King Jr. that encapsulates this idea: "Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend. Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that." When we choose to love, even in the face of hostility or indifference, we participate in God's work of redemption in the world.

It's important to note that this love isn't just a feeling – it's an action. In 1 Corinthians 13, we're reminded that love is patient, kind, and selfless. It's not just about warm fuzzy feelings; it's about how we treat people in tangible ways. Do we take the time to get to know our literal neighbors? Are we willing to lend a helping hand to someone in need, even if it's inconvenient? Do we speak words of encouragement and affirmation to those around us?

One of the most powerful ways we can show love to our neighbors is by sharing the good news of Jesus with them. This doesn't mean browbeating people with religious talk or trying to win arguments. Instead, it means living in such a way that others can see God's love shining through us. It means being ready to share the hope we have when people ask us about it. It means inviting people to experience the love and grace of God for themselves.

However, we must be careful not to put conditions on our love or on God's love. Sometimes, Christians can fall into the trap of thinking people need to clean up their lives before they can come to church or before God will accept them. This couldn't be further from the truth! The Bible tells us that God demonstrated His love for us while we were still sinners. We don't earn God's love by being good enough – it's a free gift of grace. And we're called to extend that same unconditional love to others.

Loving our neighbors also means being willing to be misunderstood or even mocked. When we truly live out Christ's love, it might look foolish or excessive to the world. But that's okay – Jesus himself was often misunderstood and criticized for the radical way He loved people. We're called to follow in His footsteps, even when it's difficult.

One practical way we can grow in loving our neighbors is through prayer. It's hard to remain indifferent to someone you're consistently praying for. Take some time to think about the people in your life who might not know Jesus. Write down their names and commit to praying for them regularly. Ask God to give you opportunities to show His love to them in practical ways.

Remember, we're not called to just be churchgoers or to keep God's grace to ourselves. We're called to be disciples – followers of Jesus who actively participate in His mission of love and reconciliation in the world. This means being willing to go to the places where hurting people are, to build relationships with those who are different from us, and to share the hope we have in Christ.

Loving our neighbors isn't always easy, but it's at the core of what it means to follow Jesus. It's not about having perfect theology or following a set of rules. It's about allowing God's love to flow through us to the people around us. When we do this, we become living testimonies to the transformative power of God's love.

So let's challenge ourselves to love more boldly and more inclusively. Let's look for opportunities to show kindness to strangers, to reach out to those who are different from us, and to share the hope we have in Jesus. As we do, we may find that not only are the lives of others changed, but our own lives are enriched and transformed as well.

In a world that often seems divided and hostile, let's be people who are known for our love. Let's be the ones who bring light into dark places, who offer hope to the hopeless, and who demonstrate through our actions that God's love truly is for everyone. This is how we tell people about Jesus – not just with our words, but with our lives.

Finding Light in the Darkness: A Message of Hope for Challenging Times

As we approach the holiday season, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, the twinkling lights and festive cheer. But for many, this time of year can also bring feelings of loneliness, stress, and even despair. The world around us often seems shrouded in darkness – from personal struggles to global conflicts. Yet, in the midst of this darkness, there is a powerful message of hope that resonates through the ages.

The prophet Isaiah spoke of a time when "people walking in darkness have seen a great light." This imagery of light piercing through darkness is a powerful metaphor that still speaks to us today. We all experience seasons of darkness in our lives – times when we feel lost, alone, or without hope. But just as the first rays of dawn inevitably break through the night sky, so too does hope emerge even in our darkest moments.

Consider for a moment the simple act of turning on a light in a dark room. The darkness is instantly dispelled, revealing what was once hidden. Light brings comfort, clarity, and a sense of safety. In the same way, the spiritual light that Isaiah prophesied about – and that Christians believe was fulfilled in Jesus – has the power to illuminate our lives and our world.

This light serves several important purposes:

1. It reminds us we're not alone: Just as a distant campfire in the wilderness assures a lost hiker that help is near, the light of hope reminds us that we are not abandoned in our struggles. There is a presence greater than ourselves that seeks to be with us, even in our darkest moments.

2. It illuminates truth: Light reveals what darkness conceals. This can be uncomfortable, as it exposes aspects of ourselves and our world that we might prefer to keep hidden. Yet this illumination is necessary for growth and healing. We cannot address what we refuse to see.

3. It gives us confidence to move forward: Think of how a little bit of light – even just the faint glow of pre-dawn – can give us the courage to take our next steps. Hope, even in small doses, empowers us to keep going when circumstances feel overwhelming.

4. It assures us of future promise: The gradual brightening of dawn reminds us that full daylight is coming. In the same way, glimpses of hope in our lives point to a greater fulfillment yet to come.

The good news is that this light is not reserved for a select few. In the Biblical narrative, it's telling that the announcement of Jesus' birth – the embodiment of hope and light entering the world – was first given to shepherds. These were not people of power or prestige, but ordinary workers on the fringes of society. This speaks volumes about the inclusive nature of hope. It's available to all, regardless of social status, past mistakes, or current circumstances.

However, we must also recognize that not everyone has experienced this light. Recent surveys paint a sobering picture of loneliness and hopelessness in our society:

- The percentage of Americans reporting no close friends has quadrupled since 1990.

- 61% of young adults and 51% of young mothers report feeling lonely almost all the time.

- Nearly half of today's teenagers say they feel persistently sad and hopeless.

These statistics are a stark reminder that many people around us are struggling in darkness. They may be our neighbors, coworkers, or even family members who put on a brave face but inwardly feel isolated and without hope.

This is where we, as bearers of light, have a crucial role to play. The old children's song "This Little Light of Mine" takes on new significance in this context. We are called to let our light shine – not in a showy or self-righteous way, but in simple acts of kindness, compassion, and presence that can pierce through someone else's darkness.

Sometimes being a light means:

- Truly listening to someone who feels unheard

- Offering practical help to a person struggling to make ends meet

- Standing alongside those facing injustice or oppression

- Sharing your own story of finding hope in difficult times

It's important to note that being a light doesn't mean we have all the answers or that our own lives are perfect. Even those of us who have experienced hope can still struggle with doubt, fear, and our own dark moments. The key is to keep our eyes fixed on the horizon, knowing that just as surely as the sun will rise, hope will dawn again.

As we enter this season traditionally associated with light and hope, let's challenge ourselves to look beyond our own circumstances. Where can we be a glimmer of light for someone else? How can we point others towards the source of lasting hope?

Remember, even the smallest light can make a profound difference in deep darkness. A single candle can be seen for miles on a dark night. Your acts of kindness, your words of encouragement, your presence in someone's life – these can be the flicker of hope that helps someone else hold on until the dawn breaks.

In a world that often feels chaotic and dark, we have the opportunity to be bearers of light. It's not always easy. Sometimes it means confronting the darkness in our own hearts first. But as we open ourselves to the transformative power of hope, we become channels through which that hope can flow to others.

So let us move forward with confidence, knowing that the light of dawn is coming. And in the meantime, let's commit to being that little glimmer of light that helps others find their way through the darkness.

The Wide Net of God's Love: Embracing All Without Judgment

In a world that often seeks to categorize, separate, and judge, we are called to cast a wide net of love and acceptance. This powerful message resonates through the parable of the dragnet found in Matthew 13, where Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a net cast into the sea, gathering fish of every kind.

This parable challenges us to reconsider our approach to evangelism and our understanding of God's inclusive love. Just as the fishermen in the story cast their nets without discrimination, we too are called to extend God's invitation to all, regardless of their background, beliefs, or current lifestyle.

The imagery of the dragnet is particularly poignant. Unlike modern fishing techniques that allow for precise targeting of specific fish species, the dragnet method involves casting a large net and collecting everything that comes within its reach. This indiscriminate approach mirrors the way we should approach sharing God's love and the message of salvation.

Too often, we fall into the trap of trying to "pre-screen" those we deem worthy of God's love or capable of accepting the gospel. We might hesitate to invite certain individuals to church or share our faith with them because we judge them as unlikely to respond positively. However, this parable reminds us that it's not our job to separate the "good fish" from the "bad." That role belongs to God alone.

The Great Commission in Matthew 28 reinforces this idea. Jesus instructed his disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations," not just those who seemed most receptive or aligned with their expectations. This global mission transcends cultural, social, and economic boundaries. We are called to share the good news with everyone, trusting that God will work in their hearts.

Reflecting on this message, we must confront our own tendencies to judge and exclude. Our human nature often leads us to separate ourselves from those who are different, whether it's based on appearance, beliefs, lifestyle choices, or socioeconomic status. We create invisible lines of division in our communities, workplaces, and even within our churches.

However, Jesus consistently challenged these divisions during His earthly ministry. He reached out to the Samaritan woman at the well, despite cultural taboos. He dined with tax collectors and sinners, much to the dismay of the religious elite. Even in His final hours, Jesus washed the feet of Judas, knowing full well that he would soon betray Him. These actions demonstrate a love that knows no bounds, a love that we are called to emulate.

The parable of the dragnet invites us to examine our hearts and ask ourselves some challenging questions. Are we putting up roadblocks that prevent people from encountering God's love? Are we adding conditions to the invitation that Jesus freely extends? Have we become more like the Pharisees, creating rules and regulations that hinder rather than help people in their spiritual journey?

It's crucial to remember that we are not the authors of faith or the arbiters of salvation. Our role is simply to cast the net wide, to extend the invitation, and to create an environment where people can encounter God's love without feeling judged or inadequate. We must trust that God will do the work of transformation in people's lives.

This approach requires a profound humility on our part. We must acknowledge that we too are sinners in need of God's grace. The analogy of dirty children needing a bath is particularly apt. We all come to God covered in the grime of our sins and shortcomings. Yet, through Christ, we are clothed in His righteousness. This gift is not something we earn through our own efforts or by adhering to a specific set of rules. It is freely given to all who accept it.

Embracing this wide-net approach may challenge some of our traditional church practices and attitudes. It might mean reevaluating how we welcome newcomers, the language we use in our services, or the types of outreach programs we prioritize. It could involve stepping out of our comfort zones to engage with communities we've previously overlooked or avoided.

The beauty of this inclusive approach is that it allows for diversity within the body of Christ. Just as a dragnet brings in fish of all kinds, a church that truly embraces this principle will be a vibrant tapestry of different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. This diversity reflects the multifaceted nature of God's creation and enriches our collective worship and service.

However, it's important to note that casting a wide net doesn't mean compromising on the truth of the gospel. We still preach Christ crucified and risen, the need for repentance, and the transformative power of God's love. The difference lies in our approach – we lead with love and acceptance, trusting that as people encounter God, their lives will be changed from the inside out.

As we reflect on this message, let us challenge ourselves to be a church known for its radical welcome and boundless love. Let us be a community where everyone feels invited to the table, regardless of their past or present circumstances. May we be known not for our judgment or exclusivity, but for our compassion and grace.

In a world that is increasingly divided, the church has a unique opportunity to demonstrate a different way – a way of love that transcends boundaries and embraces all. By casting our nets wide and trusting God with the results, we participate in building the kingdom of heaven here on earth.

Let us go forth with open hearts and open arms, ready to welcome all who come within reach of our net. For in doing so, we reflect the heart of our Savior, who continues to invite us all: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28).

Finding Rest in a World of Hurry

In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, we often find ourselves caught in a whirlwind of busyness. We're constantly connected, always on the go, and rarely take time to truly rest. But what if this constant state of hurry is taking a toll on our souls? What if our addiction to busyness is robbing us of joy, peace, and meaningful relationships?

The concept of Bethany in biblical times offers us a powerful metaphor for rest and refuge. It was a place where the sick and outcast could find care and community, where travelers could pause and prepare before entering Jerusalem. In our modern lives, we need our own "Bethany" - a place of rest and preparation for our spiritual journey.

But how do we find this rest when our world seems designed to keep us constantly moving? The answer lies in recognizing our need for rest and turning to the One who offers true respite for our weary souls.

Are You Suffering from Hurry Sickness?

Before we can find rest, we must first admit that we're tired. Here are ten signs that you might be suffering from "hurry sickness":

1. Irritability

2. Hypersensitivity

3. Restlessness

4. Compulsive overworking

5. Emotional numbness

6. Escapist behaviors

7. Disconnection from your identity or calling

8. Neglecting basic human needs

9. Hoarding energy

10. Slippage in spiritual practices

(From Ruth Haley Barton)

How many of these resonate with you? If you find yourself nodding along to several of these, it's time to acknowledge that you're tired - not just physically, but in your very soul.

The Invitation to Rest

In Matthew 11:28-30, we find a beautiful invitation from Jesus:

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

This passage offers hope to those of us feeling overwhelmed by life's demands. Jesus doesn't say, "Come to me when you've got everything figured out" or "Come to me when you're worthy." He simply says, "Come." It's an open invitation to all who are weary and burdened.

In the context of Matthew 11, Jesus was speaking to people worn out by religious obligations and the constant struggle to be "good enough." Today, we might not be burdened by 600+ religious laws, but we often carry the weight of societal expectations, work pressures, and our own perfectionism.

Jesus' invitation is radical in its simplicity. He doesn't demand that we clean up our act first or achieve some level of spiritual maturity. He asks us to come as we are - messy, tired, and in need of grace.

Taking on the Yoke of Jesus

At first glance, Jesus' words might seem contradictory. He offers rest, but then talks about taking on a yoke - a tool for work. But this paradox holds a profound truth: true rest isn't about escaping life's challenges, but about finding a better way to carry them.

When two oxen are yoked together, they can pull three times the weight of what they could individually. Similarly, when we yoke ourselves to Jesus, we don't escape life's burdens, but we gain His strength, wisdom, and peace to face them.

This yoke is also about learning. In ancient Jewish tradition, students would follow their rabbi so closely that they would be covered in the dust kicked up by the rabbi's feet. To take on Jesus' yoke is to follow Him closely, learning His ways and embodying His teachings in our daily lives.

Practical Steps to Finding Rest

1. Divert Daily: Find something each day that brings you rest and joy. It might be reading, exercising, or spending time in nature. Remember, to add this to your life, you'll need to remove something else.

2. Withdraw Weekly: Set aside a day each week for rest and renewal. This modern "Sabbath" might not look like traditional church attendance, but it should be a time when you step away from work and connect with God and loved ones.

3. Abandon Annually: Take an extended break each year. Whether it's a vacation or a staycation, use this time to unplug, reset, and refocus on what truly matters.

(From Rick Warren)

Remember, rest is not laziness - it's medicine for our souls. It reminds us that God, not our work or achievements, is the center of our lives.

A Call to Action

The message is clear: we need to admit we're tired, come to Jesus, and take on His yoke. But hearing this truth isn't enough - we need to put it into practice.

Start by being honest with yourself about your level of weariness. Then, make a conscious decision to come to Jesus, not just in a one-time event, but as a daily practice. Finally, learn to walk closely with Him, allowing His strength and wisdom to guide you through life's challenges.

In a world that glorifies busyness, choosing rest is a radical act. It's a declaration that our worth isn't found in our productivity, but in our identity as beloved children of God. It's an acknowledgment that we're not meant to do life alone, but in partnership with our Creator.

As you go about your week, remember Jesus' invitation: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." May you find the courage to accept this invitation, to lay down your burdens, and to find true rest for your soul.

Living Sent: Embracing Our Call to Be Messengers of Hope

In a world often fraught with judgment and discord, we are reminded of a profound truth: we are all called to be messengers of hope, bearers of good news, and agents of compassion. This calling isn't reserved for a select few, but for all who follow in the footsteps of Jesus.

The concept of being "sent" or being a "missionary" isn't about traveling to far-off lands or giving impressive presentations. It's about recognizing that wherever we are, we have been placed there with purpose. We are missionaries in our neighborhoods, workplaces, schools, and communities. The word "missionary" itself comes from the idea of being a messenger, and we are all tasked with sharing the message of love, redemption, and hope.

Consider the example set by Jesus in Matthew 9. He traveled through towns and villages, teaching in synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness. This wasn't just a display of divine power; it was a demonstration of how we should live. Jesus showed compassion to those deemed unworthy by society. He ate with tax collectors and sinners, much to the chagrin of religious leaders. His message was clear: He came to seek and save the lost, to be a doctor for the spiritually sick.

This example challenges us to look at our own lives. How often do we cast judgment rather than show compassion? It's easy to look at someone struggling and assume they've made poor choices. It's simple to criticize parents dealing with unruly children or those who seem to rely too heavily on technology. But what if, instead of judgment, we approached these situations with compassion?

Jesus had compassion on the crowds because they were "harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." This imagery, reminiscent of Psalm 23, paints a picture of a loving God who leads us to green pastures and quiet waters. It reminds us that many in our world are lost, not because they've chosen to be, but because they lack guidance.

We may not be the ultimate shepherd, but we can certainly hold a flashlight, pointing the way. We may not have all the answers, but we can offer a glimpse of hope. This is our calling – to show people that there is a good shepherd and to model that shepherding in our own lives.

The harvest, as Jesus put it, is plentiful, but the workers are few. This isn't a call for others to do the work; it's an invitation for us to step up. When we pray for workers to be sent into the harvest field, we're opening our eyes to the opportunities God presents to us. We're not praying for someone else to do the work; we're praying for the courage and wisdom to do it ourselves.

This call to action comes with a promise of grace. Just as God didn't wait for the Israelites to prove themselves before rescuing them from Egypt, He doesn't wait for us to be perfect before offering redemption. The promise of rescue, the promise of Jesus, came long before His birth. It gave people hope then, and it gives us hope now.

So, what does this mean for us practically? It boils down to three key actions:

1. Pray that people in the church would say yes to God. This isn't just about saying yes to overseas missions (though that might be the call for some). It's about saying yes in our daily lives – at work, at school, in our neighborhoods.

2. Lead churches to take sending seriously. Whether we're in leadership positions or not, we can encourage our faith communities to embrace this mission mindset.

3. Be sent to the people in your life. God has placed you where you are for a reason. You are sent to your current location, to your current relationships.

The challenge is clear: who is that one person you are called to reach out to? Who can you pray for, invite into relationship, and model Christ's love to? The harvest is plentiful in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and schools. We don't need to knock on strangers' doors; we simply need to engage with those already in our lives.

Believing in the gospel for ourselves is wonderful, but it comes with an obligation and expectation to share it with others. We are called to be sent into our world, carrying a message of hope, love, and redemption.

As we reflect on this calling, let's remember the words of John Piper: "In light of the gospel, we have three options. We can either go, we can send, or we can disobey." The call is there. The question is, how will we respond?

Let's embrace our role as messengers of hope. Let's look at the world through eyes of compassion rather than judgment. Let's be willing to enter the trenches with those who are struggling, offering a hand up rather than a pointed finger. And let's remember that while we may not be able to change the whole world, we can certainly make a difference in the life of one person.

Who will you reach out to? How will you live sent this week? The harvest is plentiful, and you have been called. It's time to step into the field with compassion, hope, and the good news of God's love.

Living a Life of Faith: Navigating Persecution and Pursuing Righteousness

In a world that often demands conformity and perfection, what does it truly mean to live out our faith boldly and authentically? As Christians, we are called to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, embracing a life that may run counter to the expectations and norms of society. This journey is not always easy, as it can lead to persecution, insults, and false accusations. However, it is in these moments of adversity that we have the opportunity to shine as beacons of love, grace, and forgiveness.

The Beatitudes, found in the book of Matthew, offer a powerful roadmap for navigating the challenges of a life devoted to Christ. When Jesus declares, "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness," he invites us to reframe our understanding of success and fulfillment. True blessedness, he suggests, is not found in the accolades of the world, but in the pursuit of a righteous life, one that aligns with the heart of God.

Of course, this pursuit is not about striving for a flawless performance or arguing our way to spiritual superiority. Instead, it is about allowing the righteousness of Christ to transform us from the inside out. As we grow in our relationship with God, we begin to embody the love, grace, and forgiveness that Jesus modeled for us. This transformation enables us to approach the world with a different perspective, one that seeks to understand rather than to prove a point, to love rather than to condemn.

In many ways, living out our faith is like the story of the nurse log in the Pacific Northwest. When a mighty tree falls, it can be tempting to lament the loss of something once beautiful and strong. However, as the fallen tree begins to decay, it creates space for new life to emerge. The nurse log becomes a source of nourishment and support for countless seedlings, enabling a forest to grow and thrive in ways that were once impossible.

Similarly, when we lay down our lives for the sake of Christ, we create space for something beautiful to emerge. By setting aside our desire to be right or to win every argument, we open the door for relationships to heal, for forgiveness to take root, and for love to flourish. This is the essence of the Christian life – not a quest for personal perfection, but a willingness to be a vessel for God's transformative work in the world.

As we navigate the challenges of living out our faith, it is crucial to remember that we are not alone. Jesus himself faced persecution and false accusations, yet he remained steadfast in his commitment to love and serve others. He laid down his life so that we might have life in abundance, and he invites us to follow in his footsteps, even when the path is difficult.

So, how can we cultivate a life that is marked by the pursuit of righteousness, even in the face of persecution? It begins with a deep and abiding relationship with God, one that is nurtured through prayer, scripture, and community. As we root ourselves in the love and grace of Christ, we find the strength and courage to live out our faith with authenticity and conviction.

It also requires a willingness to step outside of our comfort zones, to engage with those who are different from us, and to love without condition. Just as Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners, we are called to extend the hand of friendship and compassion to all, regardless of their background or beliefs. This is the heart of the gospel message – a love that knows no bounds and a grace that extends to all.

Ultimately, living a life of faith is not about earning God's favor or securing a place in heaven. It is about responding to the incredible love and sacrifice of Jesus with a life that is fully surrendered to him. As we navigate the joys and sorrows of this world, may we find strength in the promise that blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. May we have the courage to live out our faith with boldness, compassion, and grace, knowing that in doing so, we are partnering with God to bring hope and healing to a world in need.

The Path of the Peacemaker: Restoring Relationships and Reflecting Christ

In a world filled with division, unrest, and brokenness, the call to be peacemakers rings out like a beacon of hope. As followers of Christ, we are not merely called to be believers or followers, but to actively engage in the transformative work of peacemaking. This is not a passive endeavor, but a challenging and rewarding journey that requires us to walk in the footsteps of our Savior.

At the heart of peacemaking lies the restoration of relationships. When sin entered the world, it shattered the perfect harmony that existed between God and humanity, between individuals, and between humanity and creation. As peacemakers, our mission is to mend these broken relationships, to see the image of God in others, and to work towards reconciliation.

The Greek word for "peacemaker" in the Gospel of Matthew is an active verb, reminding us that peacemaking is not a title to be earned, but a continuous action to be undertaken. It is a call to step into a world filled with unrest and to bring the shalom of God – the perfect peace that existed in the Garden of Eden before the fall.

Peacemaking is not to be confused with a superficial sense of justice or the mere absence of conflict. True peace is found in walking with God, in experiencing the healing, miracles, and restoration that come from being in His presence. When we walk closely with Christ, like the disciples who followed in the dust of their rabbi, we become conduits of His peace to those around us.

The path of the peacemaker is not an easy one. It requires us to seek peace actively, to pursue it even in the face of adversity. The Psalmist exhorts us to "turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it" (Psalm 34:14). This pursuit is not a casual endeavor, but a deliberate and persistent one.

In the Book of Jeremiah, God instructs His people to seek the welfare, or shalom, of the city where they have been sent into exile (Jeremiah 29:7). This command is particularly striking, as it calls us to bring peace even in the midst of enemy territory. As followers of Christ, we are sent into a world that is often hostile to the message of the Gospel, yet we are called to be light in the darkness, to bring hope and love to those who are hurting.

The call to peacemaking is not limited to individual relationships, but extends to our communities and the world at large. The author of Hebrews urges us to "make every effort to live in peace with everyone" (Hebrews 12:14). This is no small task, as it requires us to lay aside our differences, to seek understanding, and to work towards cooperation rather than competition.

Ultimately, the identity of the peacemaker is rooted in Christ Himself. When Jesus surrendered His life on the cross, He offered the most gracious terms of peace imaginable – forgiveness and reconciliation to those who were at war with God. His prayer, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34), is a powerful example of the heart of a peacemaker.

As we seek to follow in Christ's footsteps, we must ask ourselves: When people look at us, do they see Jesus? Do they see individuals who are committed to building bridges, to bringing hope and worth to the marginalized, and to reflecting the love of Christ in a broken world?

The journey of the peacemaker is a challenging one, but it is also filled with blessing and purpose. As we actively engage in the work of restoring relationships, seeking shalom, and reflecting Christ to the world, we become true sons and daughters of God. May we embrace this high calling with courage, perseverance, and love, knowing that in doing so, we are playing a vital role in bringing about the kingdom of God on earth.

Seeing God with a Pure Heart

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters – our connection with God. We often find ourselves caught up in the distractions of the world, focusing on our own preferences and desires rather than aligning our hearts with His. But what does it really mean to see God clearly?

The Beatitudes in Matthew 5 offer us a glimpse into the characteristics of a disciple, the aspirations we should strive for as people of God. Among these is the call to be pure in heart, for those who are pure in heart will see God. But what does it mean to be pure in heart?

At first glance, we might think that being pure in heart means being sinless, perfect in every way. After all, Adam and Eve walked with God in the garden because they were sin-free. But the reality is, because of sin, we will never achieve that perfect picture on this side of eternity. Instead, being pure in heart is about the daily process of sanctification – becoming more like Jesus every single day.

It's like tuning an old TV antenna, adjusting it bit by bit to get a clearer picture. We may not always get it right, but we keep making those small corrective actions, striving to align our hearts with God's desires. And when we find ourselves not seeing God clearly, it's an opportunity to reflect inward and ask ourselves – are we being as pure of heart as we can be? Are we walking in line with God, trying to be more like Jesus in our thoughts, actions, and passions?

The prayer of Thomas Merton, an ancient saint, beautifully captures this idea. He prays, "I believe that the desire to please you does, in fact, please you. And I hope that I have that desire in all that I am doing." It's not about the perfection of our actions, but the sincerity of our desire to please God. Even when we don't know the way, even when the road ahead is dark and uncertain, we can trust that if our heart's desire is to follow after God, He will lead us on the right path.

But seeing God is about more than just physical sight. The Hebrew scriptures use the word "yada" to describe knowing God intimately, understanding the inner workings of who He is. It's like an engineer taking apart a machine to see how all the pieces fit together. When we seek to know God in this way, we begin to see Him not just in the beauty of a sunset, but also in the brokenness and pain of the world around us.

And as we align our desires with God's, we start to see things differently. We no longer measure success and failure by the world's standards, but by God's. We begin to ask ourselves – are we loving God and loving others in all that we do? Are our words, actions, and policies reflecting the heart of Jesus, who came to seek and save the lost?

In a world that is constantly changing, it can be tempting to cling to what is familiar and comfortable. But true purity of heart comes from keeping our eyes fixed on the unchanging plumb line of God's love. As Jesus simplified it, the greatest commandments are to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves.

So let us strive each day to be pure in heart, to align our desires with God's, and to love Him and others with every fiber of our being. For when we do, we will see God more clearly than ever before, and we will find that it is well with our souls, no matter what storms may come our way.