Page 11 - September 2025 - Truth & Tidings

world. The beret, rather than a helmet, 2:3-5). “Meekness” is controlled power
was selected to be worn for most duties that responds with gentleness, even when
for its simple, non-threatening look. The provoked – essential for a peacemaker.
sky-blue color was chosen because it stood “Longsuffering” means patient endur-
out and wasn’t aggressive. The blue beret ance, waiting graciously and suffering
symbolizes the allegiance of the peace- without lashing out or retaliating. “Bear-
keeper to the objectives of the UN over all ing with one another” is to endure with
other competing interests on the ground. others, even when difficult. We must put
As peacemakers, our sky-blue beret on tolerance for people’s faults and quirks,
isn’t to be on our head but in our head. motivated by grace and patience. “For-
Paul tells us to be seeking “those things giving one another” means graciously
which are above, where Christ is, sitting canceling offenses and debts. Our example
at the right hand of God. Set your mind on and motivation for this? “Even as Christ
things above, not on things on the earth” forgave you, so you also must do” (Col
(vv1-2). Our mission and life objectives are 3:13). We must wear a readiness to let go of
directed by Him and His priorities. That’s grievances, reflecting the gospel of grace.
where our allegiance lies. The final distinguishing feature of a
UN peacekeeper’s uniform is the em-
The Peacekeeper’s Uniform broidered patch. For us, as peacemakers,
What about the rest of our uniform? it’s “love.” This is to be our most visible
Paul continues: “As the elect of God, holy characteristic, our identity-displaying and
and beloved, put on tender mercies, kind- mission-defining self-sacrificial love that
ness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; always seeks the good of others. Love is
bearing with one another, and forgiving what governs and energizes all the rest. It
one another, if anyone has a complaint is “the bond of perfection,” tying all our
against another; even as Christ forgave uniform’s features together into mature,
you, so you also must do. But above all Christlike character.
these things put on love, which is the A More Noble Peace Prize
bond of perfection” (vv12-14). “Tender
mercies,” or literally “bowels of mercy,” Lester B. Pearson, who was Canada’s
means deeply felt compassion for others, Secretary of State for External Affairs in
especially considering their suffering. 1956, won the 1957 Nobel Peace Prize for
Like Christ, who was “moved with com- his role in resolving the Suez Crisis and
passion” (Mar 6:34), we must have soft, for pioneering UN peacekeeping.
merciful hearts that feel and act toward But the outcomes for believers who
those in need. “Kindness” is a gentle be- serve as peacemakers are much higher.
nevolence, a moral goodness expressed James assures us that “a harvest of righ-
in gracious, helpful actions. It is not just teousness is sown in peace by those who
being “nice” but actively doing good for make peace” (Jas 3:18 ESV). And our Lord
others, including the undeserving (Luk declared, “Blessed are the peacemakers,
6:35). “Humility” is lowliness of mind, for they shall be called sons of God” (Mat
a correct view of self in light of God’s 5:9). It would greatly bless your assembly,
greatness. We must wear an attitude that and it would greatly bless you! Are you
esteems others better than oneself (Php responding to your call of duty?

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