"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God"
Jesus' odd logic strikes again with this declaration. He declares that one of the keys to blessings in life is making peace, not winning outright. It is those who know how to get two parties at war to get along that are seen as God's agents.
There are all kinds of people who will tell you that the key to success in life is looking out for number one. "Be selfish and you will be happy." This is not what Jesus says. He says to find the way of compromise and peace. Be a person who doesn't always have to get their selfish way. There are always options.
There are people that stir up problems and those that bring a new level of peace to a situation. Strive to be the latter, not the former. Jesus discusses a host of ideas that will add peace: going the second mile; making things right before church; loving your enemies; doing good to those who despitefully use you.
Until tomorrow,
Gil Stieglitz