Being a peacemaker, which partially relies on the willingness of others, can present unique challenges. Jesus did not present us with an impossible goal when He talked about peace making. As the Prince of Peace, He was acutely aware of things that whisk peace away. He was acquainted with the opposing forces we face each day. I call this the clash of kingdoms.

There are two kingdoms. There is God’s kingdom, which seeks peace. There is the world’s kingdom, which seeks to destroy peace. When these kingdoms are in opposition, we are in the clash zone. The kingdoms have differing standards and ideologies. They have different kings and different ways of functioning. The world’s kingdom will ridicule, hate, and persecute people of God’s kingdom, just as they did in Jesus’ day. However, the One who overcame left us with hope. He says we can retain our peace, and even be cheerful, while the clash of kingdoms rages on.

“These things I have spoken unto you. That in me ye might have peace.
In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
(John 16:33)

These two kingdoms have irreconcilable differences. They are on a necessary daily collision course. We do our best to keep the peace within the guidelines of scripture. We do not seek to provoke others because of our own pride, although our Christ-like standards will indeed provoke them. We are humble and gentle; we are kind to those who use us, hate us, and persecute us. We rely on God, and continue with inner peace, in a world that knows none.