Anger – a number of causes with a number of potential reactions. I’m susceptible to the emotion like anyone else. For me, self-control is vital and when I feel mine beginning to wane, I remove myself from the situation out of necessity. I flee like Joseph before my unbridled tongue can spew hurtful truths that I won’t be able to take back.

This happened to me last Friday. Now, I can’t divulge the cause because, well, family. I’m just not the type to air my dirty laundry. Anyway, the feeling arose in me like a fireball as my irritation quickly turned to rage. 

So, recognizing the ugliness bubbling inside me, I took to the street. Running has always been my outlet and has kept me sane throughout the years. Need a stress relief? Run. Want to jack someone’s jaw? Resist and run. 

Yep, I’m one of those who needs space when I’m angry. Just ask Ross. I can’t trust my temper to resolve a major conflict right away. That’s just not how I handle it. I need a little time to mellow out.

This leads me to a point of discussion. Often times, those of us in the Christian community confuse a peacemaker with a peacekeeper. The desire to keep the peace is not bad in and of itself. After all, Jesus says “blessed are the peacemakers” (Matt 5:9). However, there is a difference between the two.

A peacemaker is someone who is willing to resolve turmoil in order to establish peace with others and within themselves. Inevitably, peacemaking will require engaging in conflict and tension. A peacekeeper, on the other hand, desires to maintain peace by avoiding conflict. Peacekeepers will sacrifice their own inner peace to maintain the facade of peace with others.

Basically, we cannot be true “peacemakers” by avoiding conflict, honesty and tense situations. Instead, we must learn how to make peace instead of just keep it. 

I like what Kaitlin with The Barefoot Blog writes about the three truths peacekeepers must realize. 

• Honesty Breeds Harmony

• Disagreement Doesn’t Have to Equal Disrespect

• Peacekeeping is Passive – Peacemaking is Proactive

Jesus is the prime example of a peacemaker. Jesus was continually engaging in conflict whether it was through challenging the religious leader’s beliefs, confronting sin, questioning the disciples, and preaching despite persecution. Here are a few examples:

• Disciples arguing over who is the greatest – Jealousy was high and because of Jesus’ relationship with them, He used their argument as an opportunity to teach them about humility. 

• Woman in adultery –Jesus turned that accusatory action into a saving act.

• Literally at the cross, Jesus brought (made) peace. 

For me, the main takeaway from my recent Bible study is remembering to go about reaching peace the right way and speaking the truth in love instead of anger.

Standard reporter Lacy Garrison can be reached at 473-2191.