Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
Years ago, a large statue of Christ was erected high in the Andes on the border between Argentina and Chile. Called “Christ of the Andes,” the statue symbolizes a pledge between the two countries that as long as the statue stands, there will be peace between Chile and Argentina. Shortly after the statue was erected, the Chileans began to protest that they had been slighted — the statue had its back turned to Chile. Just when tempers were at their highest in Chile, a Chilean newspaperman saved the day. In an editorial that not only satisfied the people but made them laugh, he simply said, “The people of Argentina need more watching over than the Chileans.  Not too long ago my wife was talking about how some people are like sand paper.  God uses them to smoothe rough edges in our lives.  When it comes to conflict, I’d much rather be like oil.  Oil reduces the friction between two surfaces.  Even when using a stone to sharpen a knife,  adding oil will create a much sharper edge.  Oil in scripture symbolizes the precious Holy Spirit.  When there are differences that create conflict I believe the best possible outcome is to invite Him in the midst.  After all, He is the ultimate peacemaker.  He sure did bring love, joy, and a boatload of peace to this pastor when as a sinner, I called on Jesus to save me.  Blessed are the peacemakers,  Lord knows I want to be one, don’t you?  Amen.  Pastor