When we make and maintain peace we reflect the character of God, who pursued ultimate peace with us by sending Jesus to pay the price for our sin. When our association with and reflection of Christ’s character is shown to the world, it will either bring about worship and thanksgiving to God or repulsion and rejection of God. There really is no middle ground. In this world we will have trouble, but we do not need to lose heart, for Jesus has overcome the world! And we look forward to our great reward in heaven, namely the forever presence of Jesus Himself! In the mean time we have the Holy Spirit who helps us as we get to know Jesus better through our fellowship with Him in His sufferings. 

> The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. (Romans 8:15-17)

Prepare for this week's message by reading through Matthew 5-7, giving special attention to 5:9-12