I have always identified myself as a peacemaker.  I am the middle of three children and my role in the family was that of peacemaker.  I was often a neutral party that helped with disputes and I tried my best to defuse situations as they quickly escalated.  Most of the time I was an observer, trying my best to stay in the fray. 

In seminary I was introduced to the Enneagram Personality Types – (you can read more here: https://www.enneagraminstitute.com). In the Enneagram I am a true nine – a peacemaker.  “Enneagram Type Nines are accepting, trusting, and stable. They are usually creative, optimistic, and supportive, but can also be too willing to go along with others to keep the peace. They want everything to go smoothly and be without conflict, but they can also tend to be complacent, simplifying problems and minimizing anything upsetting.”  I think this sounds about right! 

But, as I have thought about this week’s Beatitude, I have begun to ask myself the question am I a peace-MAKER or a peace-KEEPER?   

Happy are those who work for peace; God will call them his children! (GNT)

I think most of us are pretty great at being ‘peacekeepers‘, but we’re not so great at being ‘peacemakers‘.  I found this comparative explanation from “The Joyful Life Blog” which I found very helpful.

• Peacekeepers avoid the conflict, looking for short-term resolution, even if the problem is ongoing. Peacemakers on the other hand, take a long-term view working out differences that bring honor to God and to one another. 
• Peacekeepers hunker down and do what it takes to keep everyone from exploding. They are passive. Peacemakers make an active effort to restore relationships.
•  Peacekeepers take the path of least resistance. Peacemakers take the path of discipleship.
•  Peacekeepers focus on themselves and what makes it personally easy. Peacemakers are focused on God and on others. 

“You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family.”

Jesus says blessed are the peacemakers, not peacekeepers.  Peacemaking takes intentionality it does not come easy.  Peacemaking points us to God and helps us build better relationships with others. So, when I am being a peacemaker, it may take more time and effort, but it produces peace and love instead of exhaustion and bitterness. 

So, are you a peacemaker?  What changes can you make in your daily interactions to become a maker of peace?  There is work to be done…so let’s get to it!

Blessings,
Pastor Jenni

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