Eucharistic Gospel Reading for the 4th Sunday of Epiphany: Year A
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5: 9)
While I have talked about the Peacemakers before, I really ponder about what it takes to be one who seeks peace among all people. We probably need more ears than voices. We need people who will listen to what we and others have to say rather than to voice “or force” solutions to situations we really don’t fully understand.
We have in our recent past, suffered the murder of a man (Tyre Nichols) in Memphis, Tennessee by Memphis police officers. These Memphis police persons were not peace keepers in the biblical sense. And were certainly not acting as children of God. Can they be forgiven? Of course. I have to say that because all things are possible with God. The greater question is, how do we prevent this kind of loss from reoccurring?
If some of you will recall, I took a break from my blog in February of 2022 due to the loss of two of my grandsons from two different daughters living in Memphis, Tennessee. For me it raises the question of “what’s not happening in Memphis?” Is there anyone teaching peace and compassion there? Where are the preachers and fathers from whom good persons are to come? I have learned from my Bible studies that one of the first words uttered upon receiving someone, or entering someone’s home is, “Do you come in peace?:” and, “Peace be to this house and all who dwell therein,” respectively. Peace, as understood to be civility, should always be the first conditions sought.
If we have peace, we will hear the other and gain some understanding of their situation. Following Matthew’s Be-attitudes, being the peacemakers are preceded by mercy and pureness of heart. If the people were taught by pastors and parents to be merciful with loving hearts, perhaps they would have sought peace first, and thus truly be children of God.
This lesson applies to all of us everywhere. We must seek peace with mercy always, and in every encounter in which we engage with others. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” (John 14:27)
As we listen to what the Spirit of God is saying to us, let us live to love and to serve, and to teach others to love and to serve, while pondering anew what the Almighty can do. John
Let us pray: Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany (BCP p. 215)
Almighty and everlasting God, you govern all things both in heaven and on earth: Mercifully hear the supplications of your people, and in our time grant us your peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
onewhoponders 