Reconciliation and Peacemaking

Jesus called peacemakers God’s sons and daughters. Indeed, reconciling parties in conflict is to participate in the work of God, who desires that all the members of His family live in peace with one another. Yet the work of a peacemaker can be difficult. Even though he or she tries to be even-handed, demonstrating concern and empathy for both sides, the peacemaker is liable to be attacked and blamed by one side or the other. A peacemaker must therefore be willing to make sacrifices and take risks for peace—even to the extent of sacrificing his life.

Reconciliation requires much of the quarreling parties. Beyond a temporary truce, it requires genuine forgiveness. Ultimately, it should lead to bonds of love and solidarity between the former enemies. Father Moon teaches us to apply the scriptural ethic to love our enemy (See Chapter 13: Love Your Enemy), to reconciling with enemy nations and enemy religions.