Rich Dixon is back.

Last time we talked about peacemaking based on one of the Beatitudes:

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

I’ve learned it’s important to read scripture in context rather than cherry picking a specific verse that happens to fit my agenda. Jesus probably didn’t offer these ideas randomly, so I looked at the preceding verse.

Blessed are the pure in heart,
    for they will see God.

I wonder… is there a connection? Is he telling us that authentic peacemaking requires a pure heart, free from any personal agenda?

If so, before I take on the task of attempting to be a peacemaker, perhaps I need to examine my own heart, my motives.

Then, I looked at the subsequent verse:

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Once again, if there is a connection, then perhaps peacemaking isn’t as safe as it might seem. Maybe peacemakers ought to expect some degree of discomfort.

I fully admit – I’m not a theology guy. I just ride bikes. But pondering this bit of Jesus’ teaching – in the context of the entire Sermon on the Mount – feels like a worthwhile exercise.

Blessed are the pure in heart,
    for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
    for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Why do I invest so much time and energy in peacemaking – interrupting injustice – for 22 kids I’ll never meet?

Am I “pure in heart,” or do I subtly expect some sort of reward or recognition?

Do I play it safe, or am I willing to risk, do whatever it takes, regardless of the consequences?

Worthwhile questions, don’t you think?