Then the father said to him, "Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.'" (Luke 15:31-32)
God’s blessing is ours as a gift of grace. Yet too often we feel too busy or unworthy to enjoy it.
So come whether you feel lost or found, prodigal or faithful today. Pause, abide, and refresh in the way to blessing.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Matthew 5:8-9
“Gals, be more charitable!” When my sister and I squabbled when we were little, this was the usual rebuke we heard. I didn’t really know what it meant, but I guessed it meant something about being nicer. Years later I discovered it’s more complex than that — it’s being more loving, more generous, and more like the care of God.
So what does it actually mean to be a peacemaker? Simply not making waves? Placating someone who disagrees?
In life and death, Jesus was the ultimate peacemaker. God’s understanding of peacemaking isn’t just righting a wrong but creating a state of well-being, wholeness, or shalom. As children of God, by being true peacemakers, we can more fully enjoy and share God’s blessing of grace.
What positive peace could you make today?
Molly Logan
God of peace, I’m just me. I’m not magically pure in heart, yet you call me a child of God. I am blessed and claimed by you. Sometimes the injustice of the world overwhelms me, so help me today to make peace where I can, in my heart and in my world, in my own little way. Amen.
We’re blessed to be a blessing.
Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8-9)