Blessed are the peacemakers,
    for they will be called children of God.
Matthew 5:9

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,  that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”
Matthew 5:43-45

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Recently, a group of my high school classmates gathered for our 25-year reunion. As we looked through yearbooks, we caught up and reminisced on the “good ol’ days.” A flood of memories came forward that I hadn’t thought of in a long time! 

I remembered the happy times of being with friends daily and passing notes. After school, we were together at practice or walked downtown, hopping from shop to shop. I also remember there being a lot of gossip and, as a result, several disagreements amongst peers. At one point, many in my inner circle were in a widespread disagreement, including me and my best friend. At this time of my life, disagreements made me incredibly uncomfortable, and I felt defeated as I sat among the congregation at church that Sunday. And so it goes, the sermon was on Matthew 5:43, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” 

Oh boy. Here we go. 

I admitted to myself that praying for someone who hurt me wasn’t exactly a top priority. I would have rather kept the “peace” and brushed it all under the rug so we could return to how it was before our disagreement. Avoidance seemed easier, but I also wanted my friend to hear me and understand where I was coming from. And I, her. However, understanding was completely lacking on both sides. Seeking true reconciliation would be more difficult. So, I figured I would start with the advice from that Sunday’s sermon. I prayed for us to reach common ground and to understand where we each were coming from. And for us to humble ourselves and have an honest conversation to work through it. As I laid it all out to God, who already knew the entire story from all angles and how to solve it, I realized where the communication broke down with my friend.  While leaving things at the surface level may seem easier, the Bible tells us our friendships will continue to be blessed if we make peace with our disagreement. 

Next Steps

If you are facing a conflict right now, would you pray this prayer with me? 

Father God,

I come before You with a heavy heart, knowing that I am called to love even those who oppose or hurt me. Help me, Lord, to forgive those who have wronged me, even when it feels difficult. Soften my heart and guide me to let go of bitterness or resentment.

I lift up my enemies to You. May Your light touch their hearts, bringing peace where there is anger, understanding where there is confusion, and love where there is hatred. Help them to grow in compassion and wisdom.

Lord, grant me the strength to respond with kindness, the patience to hold my tongue, and the grace to seek reconciliation where possible. Transform both their hearts and mine, so that we may walk in the path of peace and healing.

I ask for Your wisdom and guidance, that I may navigate these challenges with a heart full of love, even in the face of opposition.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.