The Beatitudes are refreshing in many ways. In them, Jesus identifies circumstances and situations that may seem unfortunate or emotionally challenging and reassures us that even in the midst of these experiences, we are blessed. The verse that seemed to resonate the most this week was, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

You may ask, what is so challenging about being a peacemaker? It certainly sounds like a wonderful thing to be. But a follow-up question may help illustrate the challenge: Who are the peacemakers in today’s society?

That second question is much more difficult to answer. The world outside the walls of LuHi often seems like a very different place, a place where “likes” and “views” can be cultivated through hate and where decisions are driven by fear. If you need a reminder, just treat yourself to a few of the midterm election commercials.

Working toward peace is difficult and challenging. It often requires us to step into uncomfortable situations, listen to people with whom we disagree, and seek understanding when division would be much easier. Unfortunately, peace does not always mobilize people the way fear and hate do.

At LuHi, we partner with families to help develop compassionate, educated leaders for the future. In many ways, our mission is to help shape the next generation of peacemakers. If we can work together to teach our young people to listen with empathy, love their neighbors, extend forgiveness, and bring people together rather than drive them apart, we will have accomplished something truly meaningful.

Our world needs more compassionate and educated leaders. Thankfully, LuHi graduates will not have to look far to find opportunities to fill these roles. Whether in their families, their communities, their workplaces, or the broader world, they can be the people who choose understanding over division, compassion over indifference, and peace over fear.

Blessed are the peacemakers. May we continue to raise them, encourage them, and challenge them to make a difference in the world.