Happiness is a state of a person that corresponds to the greatest inner satisfaction with the conditions of his existence, the fullness and meaningfulness of life, the fulfillment of his calling and self-realization. “Happy are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God.”
Many of Jesus’s listeners then, like many religious fanatics today, longed for a call to war, not peace. Religious thinking often seeks to unleash conflict “in the name of God and His holiness” and resolve it by force. There is no human happiness in such an approach. And God does not like such belligerence: there is no love in such aggression, there is hatred and cruelty.
The inner world of a person unites various personality traits, often the most opposite. Peace in society unites different people and protects them from fear and anger. Political peace prevents racism, xenophobia and wars. The desire for peace frees from mistrust and suspicion, brings peace and joy.
However, did not Jesus himself say that he brought “not peace but a sword”? In this case, he meant that the new gospel teaching would, unfortunately, cause divisions. Jesus brought the sword of truth, which cannot be used in battles: only in fellowship. Sincere believers have no right to deceive and have no right to publicly renounce the truth under pressure from unbelievers. Jesus’ disciples are obliged to say what they believe. However, our faith and words can in no way be an obstacle to striving for peace, good deeds and merciful attitude towards people.
He who does not know how to bring peace and brings only violence and intolerance cannot be happy. He will be forced to change and learn the art of peacemaking if he wants to strive for God. He who learns to reconcile and unite people will find happiness and be honored with a high position before God.
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