APRIL 16

James 3:18

PEACE-MAKING (I)

What does the cross mean to you? To some, it means power – Jesus has the power to save. It also means suffering – just as Jesus carried the cross of suffering, we must carry the cross as Christians. The cross means making peace, too.

Jesus is the greatest peace-maker. He left heaven for the world to make peace between God and man because God loves you. He knows we cannot save ourselves from sin.

Are you at peace with God?  If not, you are God’s enemy and you are on the opposite side of Him. Your sins put you outside God’s house, because God doesn’t tolerate sin. How can you break down the wall of hostility that separates you from God? You can’t. But Jesus can.

Jesus died on the cross to make peace between sinful man and a holy God. When you believe in Jesus, you become a friend of God. You can enter God’s house freely. The wall of hostility between you and God is broken down. God receives you with open arms for you are now God’s child and He is your Father. You can now enjoy a loving relationship with God. Jesus makes us right with God. He is our peace-maker.

Have you tried being a peace-maker? You may have come across situations where people quarrel. Could be your parents, your classmates, or your other siblings. The reason why God allowed you to witness such disagreements may be for you to be a peace-maker. If so, pray, and then say a kind word, or tell them, if they’re Christians, to remember to do all things to please God. Often, that makes them realize they may not be pleasing God, and could help in the peace process.

Thought: Dare I be a peace-maker?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus to die on the cross to give us everlasting peace with God. At the same time, may I learn to perhaps be a peace-maker myself. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.