April 16, James 3:18

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 our own cross as Christians and suffer for Christ. The cross means making peace, too.

Jesus is the greatest peace-maker. He left heaven and came to this world to reconcile God and man. Because of His love for us, He died on the cross for our sins.

Are you at peace with God? If not, you are God’s enemy. God is holy and will not 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 child of God. The wall of hostility between you and God is broken down. God receives you as His child and He is now your Heavenly Father. You can now enjoy a loving relationship with God because of what the Lord Jesus has done for you on the cross.

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.