Reflections on the Beatitudes – Part Seven

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

I have read or listened to many motivational speakers, teachers and mentors say, “I don’t read or watch the news anymore. That’s how I maintain my bliss.” I can understand their sentiment, but I can’t accept it. I can’t maintain my bliss simply by pretending that all the bad things in the world don’t happen. Knowing that bad things are happening is not the same as learning how to do all the bad things and following the leader; nor is it the same as “willing” the bad things to happen simply by thinking about them, or “willing” them to go away. Rather, I believe I must accept the knowledge in the news and do something with it, either directly or indirectly.

St. Ignatius said, “Pray as if God will take care of it all; act as if all is up to you.” The American Red Cross didn’t come into existence simply because Clara Barton thought it was a good idea and told a few friends about it. No, Clara and a circle of her acquaintances actually founded the American Red Cross because they saw that the war-injured needed medical assistance and support and they did something about it. It took resources – financial, people, equipment, time – but they got it started. Now, in the wake of a hurricane, massive flooding, or a house fire, the Red Cross is there because people have provided the time and resources to ensure it is ready to respond.

I may be too shy or timid to organize a protest, but I can certainly support the cause by sharing my financial resources or sharing the news of the protest with my circle of influence. I may have to choose between using my limited free time to clean my home rather than attend a rally for something I believe in, but I can still act in a small way by engaging in a debate to share my knowledge with someone who has an opposing view – not to change his or her mind, but just to let them know there is another view, another choice they can make. I can give the school bake sale table a financial contribution without buying a calorie-laden cupcake. I can write to my Congressman to influence his vote on a policy issue. I can share a post on Facebook when something or someone touches my soul.

On the other hand, I can take on a Big Hairy Audacious Goal to change the world, like Clara Barton. Little or big, I must act as if it is all up to me. I still remember singing in my high school choir at Christmas time: “Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.” Blessed are the Peacemakers.