"If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all." - Romans 12:18

Reflection

After six days of reflecting on peacemaking, we recognize that peace doesn't just happen—it must be made. Paul's words acknowledge reality: sometimes, despite our best efforts, peace isn't possible. Some people won't accept our olive branch. But notice the qualifier: "so far as it depends on you."

We're responsible for our part. We can't control how others respond, but we can control our own actions. We can bless instead of curse. We can rejoice and weep with others. We can associate with the lowly. We can refuse to hit back. We can love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us.

When we do these things consistently, we act like Jesus and our Heavenly Father. We become true children of God. We spread the scent of love, and peace grows in the world around us. People may not understand our message at first, but they'll be drawn to the way we treat one another and those who oppose us.

The early church changed the world without massive evangelism programs—they simply lived out radical love and peacemaking. We can recapture that dynamic. We can become a movement of peacemakers who are known not for being the loudest or most powerful, but for our love. This is how we fulfill our calling and receive the blessing Jesus promised to peacemakers.

Reflection Question

Looking back over these seven days, which aspect of peacemaking challenges you most? What's one specific change you'll commit to making?

Action Step

Choose one peacemaking practice from this week to continue daily. Write it down and share it with someone who can help hold you accountable.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for these seven days of learning what it means to be a peacemaker. Help me to continue growing in love, forgiveness, and compassion. Make me an instrument of Your peace in my home, workplace, and community. May I be known as Your child by my commitment to making peace. Amen.

See here to share just this Prayer for Living as True Peacemakers.