“Jesus didn't say, "Blessed are the peace-lovers." He says peacemakers. He is referring to a life vocation, not a hobby on the sidelines of life.” Jim Wallis

Many things are certain in this life  and one of them is the need for peace in the world, in our communities and in the home. Who will make peace? Everyone of us can choose to promote peace and do so with the person in front of us. Our contribution to world peace may start behind the wheel in traffic. Fighting for an oil field or a parking spot are not so distant cousins.

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 9/4/2019

“Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less.” Rick Warren

These words are never more true than when we are persecuted or provoked by another. We do well to remember that Jesus was thinking of the welfare of others when He was being crucified. The hand of love is too occupied with serving, than to be raised in self defense. Our security isn’t in what people think about us, but in a Christ like attitude to seek goodness, even for those attacking you.

“Father forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 9/3/2019

“Anything that costs your peace is too expensive.” Unknown

We should not confuse true peace with peaceful surroundings. A peaceful person doesn’t focus on protecting their personal space but in spreading peace and goodness to others. In truth, we must often sacrifice a peaceful environment to do this. We cannot close our doors to protect our own personal peace and at the same time be a peacemaker in a world desperate for it.

“Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called the children of God.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 9/2/2019

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” Dalai Lama

Compassion is an expression of heartfelt mercy. Compassion loves mercy not simply because we know we need it, we also know that others need it as much as we. It is interesting that this is one of the few times we are encouraged to act on our feelings-those that move the soul to express kindness even when the other does not deserve it, hasn’t asked for it and probably don’t know that they need it.

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Col.3.12 “Conversations Within” ts 9/1/2019

”Discipline is remembering what you want.” David Campbell

Our greatest desire at any given moment will always determine our choices. The key to a healthy and fruitful life is to make sure that our strongest desire is always for goodness. Define what you really want in life; in marriage; relationships, and health. Then make sure these things define you. The brightest fire is the one you feed the most.

“The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” 1John2.17  “Conversations Within” ts 8/31/2019