Rich Dixon is here again.

+++

Blessed are the peacemakers – we recognize it as one of the Beatitudes, we’ve heard and read it many times.

Until recently, I didn’t understand what it truly meant, or how difficult authentic peacemaking might be.

I always thought peacemaking meant stopping war. Until someone pointed out that brothels exist, and little children are abused, in “peaceful” countries.

I encountered this more in-depth definition:

Peacemaking is the act of interrupting injustice without mirroring injustice, the act of disarming evil without destroying the evildoer, the careful, arduous pursuit of reconciliation and justice.

Yeah – turns out peacemaking is tough, and long-term. And often dangerous, because those committing injustice might not like being interrupted.

Thinking about our 22 kids, the “easy” part is rescue. Many organizations have strategies for getting kids away from traffickers. But… I wonder, “Do those strategies interrupt injustice – without mirroring injustice?”

Some would say this is a case where the ends justify the means, where we ought to do whatever is necessary to rescue kids. Even if it’s heavily armed Rambo-style commandos.

But… is that what Jesus advocates?

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

Disarming evil without destroying the evildoer. The careful, arduous pursuit of reconciliation and justice.

Love your enemy.

I don’t claim to know how to do that.

One of many reasons we partner with Project Rescue is their attempt to be peacemakers in a chaotic and violent environment. I consistently admire and learn from their long-term, patient approach to Jesus-centered rescue, reconciliation, and prevention.

Perhaps you and I aren’t called to be large-scale peacemakers. What if we’re simply supposed to make peace in our families, neighborhoods, and communities? And do our part to support folks like Project Rescue.

How much would the world change if we all did that?

It would be tough, and maybe risky.

And we would be called children of God.

Next time: Let’s look at this in a broader context.