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.