Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” Read Matthew 5:9. Peacemaking is intentional and active. It requires humility and wisdom. Often, I hear people say, “I don’t like conflict.” No one likes conflict, but conflict is a part of the human experience. Making peace is not the same as avoiding conflict. Making peace resolves the conflict and finds an agreement so that both parties may live together in a peaceful environment. The real question is, “Are we willing to do the hard work of reconciliation when conflict occurs?" Reconciliation takes a lot of emotional energy, and many of us simply are not willing to put forth the effort. Sometimes we have put a lot of energy into reaching reconciliation, but the other party is not interested. What is our responsibility, and how far do we go? As disciples, our goal is to be like Jesus. Jesus showed us that the goal of every broken relationship is reconciliation. Our first responsibility is to initiate the process after prayerful discernment. If the other party is not interested in pursuing reconciliation, we continue to keep the door open, but we don’t necessarily pursue it. If the other party is interested, then our next step is to stay humble while working toward a peaceful solution. If we can make peace, then the last step is the restoration of the relationship.

God of peace, we seek your guidance in all our relationships. Help us find forgiveness and common ground so we may live in peace with you and with all people. Amen.