Published on 06/9/2008

As we've learned in recent days, Jesus shows us the direction in his Beatitudes. Last week we studied the seventh: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9).

Should you study Sanskrit and Tibetan languages or become a rock 'n' roll musician? You probably don't know the answer, but apparently the Dalai Lama did.

Today's Wall Street Journal tells us that hundred of people are flocking to Dharmsala, India to seek personal guidance from "His Holiness." One was Philip Hemley. As a result of his conversation, he chose to pursue his rock career under the name Phil Void. I've always wanted to be a vintage car collector; maybe I'll go by Jim Mustang from now on. Or not.

There's a better way to pursue true happiness. As we've learned in recent days, Jesus shows us the direction in his Beatitudes. Last week we studied the seventh: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). When we accept his love, obey his word, receive his forgiveness, and trust his will, we can be at peace with God. When we initiate pardon and seek reconciliation, we can be at peace with others. With whom do you need such peace today?

The process starts with you. Scripture says that "God has called us to live in peace" (1 Corinthians 7:15). We are to "live at peace with each other" (1 Thessalonians 5:13). Our Master tells us, "Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you" (Romans 15:7). God commands us: "Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many" (Hebrews 12:14-15). The decision is yours.

When we have God's peace in our heart, we can give it to others. And when we give peace to others, we find it in our own heart. As we love God we love our neighbor. As we love our neighbor, we love God.

And then we "will be called sons of God." Jesus does not say that we become sons of God--that would be works of righteousness. But people will know that we are God's children as we give his peace to them: "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:35). Our most significant witness to the world is our love for each other.

Is your soul at peace with those who matter to you? Would you seek peace with God, and with them? Your life will be forever different if you will. We'll finish tomorrow.