Title: Fruit of the Spirit (Peace)
Contents
Hymn: New Hymn No. 336 'In the midst of tribulation and persecution'
Meditation: I pray that you may become blessed people of faith who bless your neighbors and live a life full of joy and peace.
Confession of Faith: Apostles' Creed
Text: "Blessed are the peacemakers..." (Matthew 5:9-12)
God has given us the name of Peacemakers. 2 Corinthians 5:18 says, “He has given us the ministry of reconciliation.” But what about our lives today? God wants to build peace on this earth through us, but in many cases, how many people are heartbroken because of Christians? The Lord gives the command to make peace. How can we make peace in the world when we can't make peace even at home? It's like ordering someone who can't even walk to run. Looking at us, we cannot help but be discouraged. However, a person of faith is not a person who looks at himself, but a person who looks to the Lord and sees the future.
What power does a branch have to bear fruit? The place where the fruit is produced is the branch, but the power to bear the fruit is supplied from the main stem. Regardless of Jesus, I cannot form a community of peace with my personality.
The same is true in the church. The devil is well aware of how strong the church can be when one becomes one. Therefore, the devil makes us separate. Why do church members have to fight? Does money come and go between us? Does power come and go? If there is no reason to fight, why is there no unity among us? Because they are deceived by Satan. This is Satan's best strategy. James 3:8 says, “The tongue cannot be tamed; it is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”
Discord arises because you are not careful with your words. We are the peacemakers who stop the fight. Only good things should be said. Complimenting each other softens relationships like lubricant. When our family and our church become a peaceful community, God the Father is glorified through this community.
Prayer: Now, put away all complicated thoughts, and humble yourself, take up your cross, and follow me. Let the Lord's words be put into practice at home and at church. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Lord's Prayer