Peace with Others

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” – Romans 12:18

Sandra cherished her home. It was the fulfillment of a dream she’d carried since childhood. The vibrant flower bed in the front yard, teeming with fragrant blooms year-round, and the backyard tire swing where her kids giggled and played made it her little slice of heaven. But there was one blemish on this otherwise perfect picture—her next-door neighbor.

Her neighbor, an elderly woman, was infamous in the neighborhood for her sour temperament. It seemed nothing escaped her complaints. She grumbled about Sandra's trashcan placement, the joyful sounds of kids playing, and the harmless family dog that had never once tried to escape.

At first, Sandra felt frustrated and tempted to respond in kind. But as she prayed about the situation, she was reminded of God’s call to live in peace with others. “I realized she might not be mean-spirited but just lonely and in need of care,” Sandra shared.

Sandra began making small gestures of kindness. She baked cookies, brought over home-cooked meals, and even offered to help with tasks like cleaning her neighbor’s gutters and fixing her squeaky porch step. Over time, the elderly woman’s icy exterior began to thaw, and a surprising friendship blossomed.

“I’m so glad I didn’t let her initial attitude push me into responding with anger,” Sandra reflected. “Now, the whole neighborhood sees her in a new light, and she feels less isolated.”

Reflection:
Living at peace with others isn’t always easy, especially when people test our patience. But Sandra’s story reminds us that kindness has the power to transform relationships. Sometimes, the people who seem the most difficult are those who need love the most.

Unique Quote:
“Kindness is the bridge that turns walls into doors and strangers into friends.”

Prayer:
God, sometimes it’s hard to love the people around me, especially when they seem unkind or unapproachable. Teach me to extend grace and kindness, even when it’s difficult. Help me to reflect Your love in my words and actions so I can build peace in my relationships. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Blessings, Pastor Stephan