“… be at peace with one another.” -Mark 9:50
Our family members are the individuals with whom we spend a great percentage of time during the developmental stages of life. We also spend another significant proportion of time gaining an education. Both our families and education contribute to the way we relate to others and understand our world. When we introduce our friends to our family members, there are often moments of surprise and recognition when our friends detect similarities or differences between us and our families. It isn’t unheard of for someone to say, “You are just like your … !” or “I see where you get that trait from.” Our immediate and extended families help shape who we are because of proximity.
During his ministry, Jesus taught and modeled for his followers the type of character they should possess. These characteristics could only be imparted through relationship and nearness. Jesus chose 12 to become a part of His inner circle. He taught them, traveled with them and cared for their needs. When Peter denied knowing Jesus, the people around him said they didn’t believe his denials because there was something about the way he acted that betrayed his previous association with Jesus (Luke 22:54-62). Just as our friends and teachers can see the resemblance between us and our parents, so it is with those who claim to be Christ-followers. These identifiable traits help confirm our relationship or connection to Him.
One of these identifiable qualities is peacemaking. Jesus taught, “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God.” (Matthew 5:9) He also states, “… be at peace with one another.” (Mark 9:50) It is safe to say, as we conclude this second month of 2017, that peace is not readily available and living peaceably is declining. There is unrest, uncertainty and skepticism that may impact each of us as we coexist with people throughout the day. The unease is brought home by our family members from work or school. Not to mention what we experience from social media and learn through the news.
How can we then find peace in the midst of all this? Spend time with Jesus. How can we remain peaceful in the center of turmoil? Spend time with Jesus. How can we become peacemakers? Say it with me: “Spend time with Jesus!” Our proximity to Him will influence our way of being, and truly reflect whom we belong to.
Dilys Brooks, MDiv
Associate campus chaplain
Loma Linda University