The work of peacemakers in places of conflict and division is hard, careful work of finding compromise and helping different sides to see one another’s perspective. Lasting peace comes from focusing on what we have in common as fellow human beings. This does not mean ignoring the wrongs or allowing injustice to stand. Forgiveness too can be a long, hard road. The reality is that no-one truly wins through repeating the cycle of polarisation, division, and violence. We all benefit from true and just peace.

Finding peace within our own lives also needs to be made, rather than waiting for some imagined future when there will be no more demands on us. To cultivate peace in our lives is not about being free of worries or issues, but rather being able to stand firm through the storms of life, feet firmly planted on the solid ground of who we are and what matters. Christians are encouraged to remember that we are all made in God’s image and saved through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Nothing can take that away from us. From this truth, we can look at others and try to see God’s image in them too. In this way, peace is made and all are blessed.