The following page contains testimonies from people just like you who have seen the principles of biblical peacemaking work in their own lives. We'll add testimonies as they come in, so keep checking back. If you haven't added your testimony to our "Peacemaker War Chest" yet, we invite you to tell us your story now. We'd love to hear it!
See also: Audio Testimonies
Written Testimonies
While attending the Peacemaker's Conference in Minneapolis in 2006, God showed me how deeply I had hurt another man with words I had spoken to him in anger. I committed to the men sitting at the banquet table with me that I would address this situation when I returned home. I knew I had to confess my sinful attitude and actions in my verbal assault that had taken place many months earlier. I had known for some time that it was going to be necessary to address this conflict, but I was in no hurry to deal with it.
A couple of weeks after the Conference I awoke up with a very strong sense that this was to be the day. Knowing it would not be easy, I prayed. As I drove in to my office that morning, I heard the words, "Be a man!" The Holy Spirit was speaking to me in response to my prayer for wisdom, courage, and guidance as I prepared to meet with this man I had offended. For months I had been a peace faker. Now it was time to be a peacemaker. I had tried to justify my actions, but my sin was no less sin because he too had sinned. Whether he was willing to address his own actions was not a consideration. It was not going to be easy. I dreaded it. It had all the potential to be an explosive situation. As I prepared to meet with my small prayer group that morning for some intercessory prayer I knew that this was not the first time God had spoken these words to a man. I had spent a lot of time in the book of Job over the last couple of years so these were very familiar words.
"'Now prepare yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer Me'" (Job 38:2-3, 40:7). God does not waste words. Whenever He says something in Scripture, you can rest assured that it is worth noting. He uses the exact same words as He speaks to Job on two different occasions. The word God used for "man" when He spoke to Job in Chapter 38 is "geber" (Strong's #1397), which is reserved for the male of the species. Geber means, "man, strong man, warrior (emphasizing strength or ability to fight)."
The measure of a man is not in his physical stature, but his heart and its capacity for courage, responsibility, and perseverance. It could be said that the greatest measure of a man is his willingness to courageously take on a difficult situation, behave responsibly, and see it through to the end. A man is:
· Mature enough to do what needs to be done, when it needs to be done;
· Accepting of God's sovereignty, Admits when he is wrong, and Acts responsibly;
· Never gives up!
I had to be a man in my conflict. I had to deal with it…NOW! After God told Job to prepare himself like a man, He required that Job do something very difficult. He was to pray for the three "friends" who had wrongly accused him of sin. Did Job have a right to be angry with those men? You bet he did! But, a mature believer must be willing to sacrifice their rights for the sake of righteousness.
I went to this man after work that day and talked with him. I tried to follow the seven A's of confession. I not only asked forgiveness for my hurtful words and attitude, but also asked him to forgive my delay in addressing the conflict because of my procrastination and pride. He seemed genuinely moved. He accepted my confession and said that he forgave me. It went much smoother that I could have ever dreamed. A great burden was lifted from my shoulders and in the coming days God blessed me innumerably. The mercy hose was finally un-kinked.
I wrote this testimony in a devotional that was used in my church's "Monday Mail" and I later learned that one of our deacons gave the devotional to the local high school football team. Every conflict is an opportunity to glorify God! Amen!
God used this conflict to teach me so very much about what it truly means to be a man. It does not mean that we are to enter into every conflict without wisdom or concern over the costs or consequences of the conflict, nor does it mean that we are to avoid confrontation and conflict with the excuse that it is not Christ-like. Jesus was confrontational when the circumstances called for it. To be a man means that we are to be courageous followers of Christ in this spiritual conflict in which we are engaged. We are to be bold and not back down. We are to face our fears. We are to be mature believers who will get things done, but who will wait on God and His timing. We must be willing to allow God to search our hearts and question us about our attitudes and assumptions. We are to accept God's sovereignty in every situation, and be willing to admit when we are wrong. We must take responsibility for our actions and behave in a responsible manner. And finally, we are to never, never, never give up! This is the true measure of a man. If you think about it, this true measure of a man looks a lot like Jesus Christ, doesn't it?
Stephen E. Garner
Buchanan, GA
I am a manager with nineteen employees. An employee that I have worked with for twenty years has had many conflicts with the previous manager as well as other employees. At the first of the year I had to counsel her for being insubordinate to my assistant. She felt she was never judged fairly and was resentful that others always thought of her as a troubled employee, including me.
In April our care group began studying the Peacemaker material. At the beginning of the class we identified someone with whom we had an ongoing, unresolved conflict. I identified this employee. Each week I would share the most recent irresponsible thing she had done and how it infuriated me and frustrated the other workers. After a while I had fully persuaded the care group that this employee was a problem. Our course leader continued to teach the PM material and its concepts. One concept that grabbed my attention is the second step of resolving a conflict - getting the log out of your own eye. However, in the conflict with this employee the "log in my eye" was not clear.
In May I had a major conflict with this employee, becoming angry with her for a comment she had made to me in front of other employees who reported to me. We discussed it when it happened but she acted like it was a big joke. I didn't take it that way and was still angry with her when our discussion ended. I proceeded to talk to several co-workers about what she said and they all agreed she was a problem employee. On Sunday I told the care group about this incident. Our facilitator let each person in the group try to identify the log in my eye. It was apparent after everyone shared that I had fully convinced them this employee was bad and the fault did not lie with me. At that point our facilitator said, "Maybe the log in your eye is gossip. Perhaps this employee is bad and should be disciplined but not gossiped about". He suggested that, by my gossip, I had polluted the environment around the employee and fed her bitterness.
My heart sank at his words. Based on what we had studied about the 7 A's of confession, specifically the first "A", I knew that I would need to apologize not only to the employee but also to all of my workers.
When I returned to work, I went to each person I had spoken with about her, told them I was wrong, and promise this behavior would not be repeated. I then brought her in my office, told her I had talked about her behind her back, and I was totally wrong to do that. I told her I was sorry and it wouldn't happen again. We talked briefly about the incident and I promised never to bring it up again. Her reaction was complete surprise! She said again that she had been joking when she made the remark, but she was sorry she'd said it.
This was very difficult to go through but in the months since she has completely changed her attitude. She is more helpful to her co-workers and gets along much better with them. Several people have commented how she is easier to work with and how much nicer she is. She goes out of her way to help, something she never did before. She even told me the other day that she is trying to be less negative and more willing to go out of her way to do a good job.
Going through the Peacemaker Bible study has been a life-changing experience for me. Conflicts happen every day and being equipped to help resolve them has applications no matter where you are.
Name Withheld
Two Christian businessmen, Paul and Larry (names changed to protect privacy), entered into a contract for certain internet services. They first met each other at a fundraising event for a Christian Ministry they both supported.
Paul donated his house to hold a fundraising event for the Christian Ministry and contributed financially while Larry donated to the Christian Ministry his knowledge and experience in spreading the gospel over the internet.
Paul was so impressed by Larry's knowledge he hired Larry to do the same thing for his business. After paying all the money owed under the contract, Paul became dissatisfied with the results. Although Larry tried to satisfy those concerns, it became apparent Paul would not be satisfied. They both became frustrated and ceased communications for over a year.
Paul refused to file a lawsuit against Larry, but still wanted to somehow reconcile. Larry too wanted to reconcile, but felt Paul's demands unreasonable and saw no way out.
They agreed to seek out a Christian mediator at their church. After two hours of mediation, the parties were at a stand still. Larry said the mediation was a waste of time, and that the issues were the same ones discussed over the past two years.
Using the Peacemaker brochure, the Christian mediator asked Paul and Larry if there were any things they needed to confess to each other and ask for forgiveness. Although Paul believed he was wronged and entitled to his money back, he confessed his anger and spreading gossip to others about Larry. When Larry heard Paul's confession, he asked forgiveness for his part in the conflict.
Miraculously, once the two confessions were done and forgiveness given and received, the material issues between Paul and Larry were relatively easy to resolve. Paul no longer insisted on a refund of money paid. Larry agreed to transfer all rights in the internet sites he developed to Paul and assist in the transition to a new technical advisor. Once the mediation was over (which took less than an hour to conclude), Paul and Larry left the mediation together and lingered in the parking lot for another 15 minutes sharing personal information about their families and work. Only God could have accomplished this result without involving lawyers and substantial expense.
Matt Argue
Carlsbad, CA
My husband and I have been in training for the past year to become Certified Chrisitan Mediators through the Peacemaker Ministries. We asked our pastor if we could share the group study program that Peacemaker provides to our church. Over 50 signed up for the program and the pastor was so impressed that he also came. Well, it was amazing grace from start to finish.
On the second night several people told the group about relationships that had been restored that week. One lady stood up to tell us that she had 5 people on her list that she was "on the outs" with and she went to each one of them. She was successful with 4 out of 5. Another lady tearfully told of being out of relationship with a person for years and was restored in minutes. She said it was so easy with God's grace! She was beaming! Many others told similar stories.
We were greatly encouraged by this response. But then God's Word never comes back void! We will keep teaching His Word and sharing God's plan of forgiveness, resolution and restoration!!
Bill & Peggy White
Pensacola, Florida
As I thought about testimonies to submit, two mediations came to mind. Since the first was already publicly documented** in the Peacemaker Magazine, I will recount the second, more recent mediation. It involved a very successful businessman / owner of a company and a former employee. Though both were Christians, the conflict escalated into lawsuits being initiated by both parties. At the end of the mediation session, both parties, after significant confession and forgiveness, actually pledged to be each other's "advocates" by promising to give positive testimony about the other - the owner of the company to the rest of his employees who were somewhat privy to the conflict, and the employee to a circle of other former employees.
Though there were many common threads between these two mediations, one that stuck out was the parties' extremely negative assessment of the other party and negative prognosis of what might happen at the mediation session, only to evolve in miraculous grace-giving and actual celebration. In the former matter, the parties actually dined together after the mediation!
In response to the claim that "it just won't work" I stand smiling saying "but it does!"
Brent Amato
Hoffman Estates, IL
**The publicly documented mediation article referenced by Mr. Amato is available by clicking this link.**
Late in 2005 a situation arose in our church necessitating the board take some kind of action. After much debate and intense discussion a decision was made and action taken in early 2006. Because I was close to the two parties involved, I was made aware of the situation. I became very upset; I felt the action was outrageous. I decided that if the board was going to treat people this way, my wife and I didn't need to remain as part of this church. My wife, however, did not share my level of anger and, as an employee of the church, did not feel she could just quit and go elsewhere.
I turned my anger toward the pastoral staff. I began jumping to conclusions about why the decision was made. I became very embittered with these men and did not attend services for many months. During this time I continuously hounded my wife to quit her job at the church so we could start looking for another place to worship. Both pastors had made several attempts to contact me. I refused to answer the phone and would not return any of their calls. In April, John, the chairman of the deacons, made arrangements with my wife to come to see me after a Sunday morning service. Now my wife was bringing one of "them" into our home! I felt trapped, but what was I going to do, go walk in the park for a couple of hours? As I waited at home for them to arrive, I thought "what do I say to this guy, will I even be able to talk with him in a civil tone?" When John and his wife arrived I was able to be civil, but still wary of what they would say. Were they going to chastise me and admonish me for my reactions? It soon became clear that they were genuinely concerned for me and they were only there to love me back into fellowship. They didn't try to explain the board's actions or try to convince me that the pastors were right. They just wanted to see me back in fellowship. The chairman told me about a ministry he had become involved with called Peacemakers. He explained what they where about and offered me a copy of the book, The Peacemaker. He asked me, for my own spiritual good and growth, to please read it and to consider attending the upcoming Peacemaker Conference being held in our church. I said I would read the book but the conference was on a date that conflicted with a business trip. I was to be out of town for at least a week, including the Saturday of the conference.
I went on the trip, taking the book with me, even though I had already read through it. Early that week I read the book two more times and finally went through it with my bible open and a note pad to record my thoughts. God was beginning to work in my heart. I could see the Biblical principles that were being brought to light in this book, how they related to me, and how I was violating them. I could hardly wait to get back to talk to John so he could help me walk through this path of reconciliation. Early Friday morning on our business trip we received a call from our company telling us to finish up any repair work, pack up, and get home. My co-worker was needed in the plant on Saturday morning. We drove through the night to get him home in time and now I was available to go to the conference.
God is certainly in control of all things. He wanted me at that conference. As I listened to Eric Foley make his presentation, the Peacemaker material I had been reading suddenly had such clarity. John offered to advise me on how to proceed with the reconciliation process. We began to meet and discuss where I was in this process. The Lord's timing has been clearly evident in this whole process. Many times I felt ready to move on to the next step with one of the pastors only to find our schedules conflicting for several days or longer. During these delays I found that as I was praying and contemplating my heart, God was revealing to me attitudes and thoughts that were hindering and even damaging my relationships with these people. I came to realize that I had negative thoughts and feelings about both pastors that I had been harboring for quite some time. I can only describe them as attacks from Satan that I was sadly too willing to entertain. I have since had meetings with both pastors and feel we are well on our way to complete reconciliation. I gave this testimony to our adult bible fellowship class with almost all of the board members present and apologized to them publicly.
Darvin Appleton
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
My name is Rowena, a daughter of Zion, whose life was spared by the grace of God. This is my testimony concerning the King.
In 1999, I fell into an open heating vent at work that caused substantial physical injury. What made this accident especially hard was the fact that much of my sense of self was tied up in the condition and appearance of my body. I was physically fit, healthy, and had turned from a life of sin to follow after Christ. How could this happen to me?
For days on end I would lie in my bed crying out to God for an answer. At the time he seemed so far away; yet, he was keeping me and sustaining me in the midst of my trials as only God can. He had allowed me to live and not die for his namesake and all he wanted was a sacrifice of praise and submission to his way of doing things.
I quickly realized that drastic conditions required drastic measures. I began to fast and pray; yet, nothing worked because my heart wasn't right toward my employer. Somehow, I stumbled upon the Peacemaker's website and saw that there was a one day training in Chattanooga, Tennessee. I attended the training and it began to change my way of thinking.
I went back to work and tried to use the principles that I had learned; however, I still had not removed the log from my own eye. My employer responded by trying to avoid the issue and after repeated efforts I left the company disillusioned. You see, I had tried to fight the battle in my own strength and I had lost.
For seven (7) years I had harbored resentment in my heart against my employer feeling he owed me something. Yes, I had been horribly injured but this didn't give me the right to hate my brother. Praise God for giving me a desire in my heart to read his word and for putting me under strong spiritual leadership. In time I began to see the error of my ways.
The Bible says, "We have all sinned and fell short of the glory of God;" therefore, how could I continue to judge my brother by a standard that even I couldn't keep at times? I began to realize that I loved him and like Jesus taught, I could look beyond his faults and see his needs.
Several weeks ago, I wrote my brother a letter asking him to forgive me. Although we haven't spoken, I believe that he could sense the sincerity of heart and has forgiven me. Most of all, God has forgiven me and I have been reconciled to him. I truly believe in my spirit that on that day, all of heaven rejoiced and God was glorified.
I've realized that holding on to old resentments cost too much. I must let it go, and turn the problem over to God. Isaiah 41:10b, God says, "I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand".
Rowena West
Selma, AL
Discipline comes to all of us in life. Usually we cringe at the thought. As children when we do something wrong and our parents find out, fear comes to us, knowing discipline is coming. Church discipline seems even worse then, doesn't it? When you think of the wonderful worship and fellowship you have with your brothers and sisters in the church, you don't usually include church discipline but I believe it should be a part of each church's foundation.
In my life discipline has been key to the man I am now. As a youth I was taught the principles of the Bible. Without a father around I had to learn a lot of things for myself. I was very blessed to have men in my church who would include me in different activities and who became father figures to me. Being around these godly men strengthened me in my drive to grow in my faith. When I was 13 I became a communicant member of our church, not knowing what a blessing this is. As a teenager I began to stray from the church. Around the time I was 16 I began to experiment with drugs and alcohol. Pretty soon it took hold of my life and my faith became nonexistent. Right away the elders of the church noticed a change and began to meet with me. I thought they were telling me how to live my life and judging me when in reality they were expressing their concern and providing wise counsel. After that I got a job where I could work on Sundays so I wouldn't have to go to church. I was controlled by my drug and alcohol abuse and it became an idol. I cut off almost all contact with everyone in the church but my own family. Eventually there was a meeting where the church decided to review my membership. I was invited to speak on my behalf as to why I should not be removed. I saw this as a way out and ignored it. In 2000 I received a letter from the church telling me I was removed from membership.
For the next couple of years my lifestyle continued until I had a run-in with the police. I was arrested for DUI. I completely ignored the consequences. I never paid the fines or went through the treatment. On Christmas night of 2001, I was arrested again. The police looked at my record and noticed there was a warrant for my arrest and that ended up equaling a month and a half in the county jail. During that month and a half, I began to think clearly for the first time in years. Without the influence of drugs and alcohol on me, I began to think where my life was headed. I met with my mother and asked here if I could move back in with her and she told me there needed to be a change first. It wasn't just about quitting my abuse but more about attending church and seeing where my relationship with God was. I began to read from a bible that was in my cell. I was convicted by Psalm 30:9 and I realized how I had been wasting me life.
The first Sunday after I was released from jail I went to church for the first time in more than five years. It was the total opposite of how I had thought the church was viewing me. Instead of their judgment I felt a wonderful welcome from many of the families I had known so well. In the following weeks and months, I even began to enjoy being in a church.
Each week I met with our pastor and we discussed things I was thinking and any questions I had. I knew I needed to share my story with the whole church. When I started to write out my confession my pastor gave me a Peacemaker Brochure and suggested I frame my story around the Seven A's of Confession. On June 9, 2002 I was set to give my confession. The funny thing about that Sunday is that we had an intern who was giving his first sermon the same day. I got to the church early and there he was, pacing nervously. I felt a little more at ease that I wasn't the only one who was nervous. I stood up at the pulpit and confessed my sins to the congregation, trying to hold back tears. The reaction was nothing I expected. I heard "Amen" after "Amen" and the whole congregation applauded. As I stood there I saw how God's forgiveness is expressed through his people and church. The tears were just waiting to get out. I remember the first person that came up to me after the service - he shook me hand, gave me a big hug and said, "Welcome home, Kirk." For the first time in years I cried. These weren't tears of sadness but of joy.
With everything I have experienced, I believe discipline is a vital part in each church. Discipline is usually seen as a bad thing, but I consider it a blessing. The fact that members of my church loved me enough to discipline me and show me that the life I was leading was disobeying God made me eventually see a need for repentance. Without repentance there can be no reconciliation, and through discipline a person sees the need for repentance. If I ever stray away again, I am thankful I have a church that loves me enough to correct me.
Kirk Thornburg
Billings, MT
We just had to write and give you a testimony. The youth workers and elders met last night to discuss direction for our youth ministry and some problems that have been plaguing that ministry for a couple of years. The church has attempted to discuss this before and, in the past, meetings were tense, love was lacking, personal agendas were apparent, and hurtful things were said.
Last night, the nine people in the room were all loving, open, honest, and vulnerable. Every person present took part in the meeting and shared openly. People judged each other charitably and made statements such as, "I don't think you meant it this way, but when you say that I feel . . ." Statements were repeated back to make sure there was no misunderstanding. And, at the end of the evening, there was complete unity.
I'm sure you hear stories like this all the time, but for us it was completely incredible. We've had a few instances of peace breaking, but more often the atmosphere has been one of faking peace. Last night, an issue that could have been and in fact has been tense was instead full of love, true communication, and unity. God was truly at work and clearly seen. People left feeling upbeat about the direction God is taking us.
So, again, thank you for your ministry! God is truly blessing the work you do.
Name Withheld
Last week we had a God-given spiritual breakthrough in a state convention with a wonderful reconciliation of very fractured fellowship between those precious Christians. It started to happen on the floor of the convention at the end of the evening program as a young pastor started to confess his sins against some of the other pastors and leaders of the associations and state convention. He confessed specific sins to individuals in the meeting and they granted forgiveness publicly. That opened the floodgate and it went on for an hour and a half. The last person to stand started by saying that he was the real reason for all the strife. He admitted to shameful sinfulness, tearfully begged forgiveness of individuals and the associations and state convention as a whole, and was compassionately granted forgiveness. These dear brothers experienced the beginning of true revival and the redemption of their future ministry in their state.
Johnny Johnson
Sr. Ministry Consultant
Peacemaker Ministries
I remember the day fondly. Scott and I became engaged to be married that morning after church. Having met through a local peacemaking ministry, we both had hearts for seeing God restore relationships. So, it was no surprise that even on such a special day for us, we would be keeping an appointment that afternoon with a woman who was intent on leaving her husband for another man because God just wanted her "to be happy."
Scott had called the woman at the request of her desperate husband. She agreed reluctantly to meet and hear what Scott had to share. Not wanting to meet with another man's wife alone, Scott asked if I would accompany him. Neither of us could understand the woman's choice to meet at a state park. We were just grateful she was agreeing to meet at all.
It was unusually cold and rainy that June day, even for Oregon. We pulled into the parking lot, surveyed the deserted park, and sat in the van praying until the woman pulled up. Through dripping car windows, we hastily introduced ourselves and agreed to make a dash through the pouring rain to a nearby shelter with picnic tables. It was there that God's grace would manifest in a most unexpected way.
The woman sat across from us at the picnic table, dressed in far too little-too little for the weather and too little for a meeting with a strange man in a park. I was glad I had come along. She told us that God was leading her to leave her husband to be with a man she had fallen "in love" with. We listened politely, and I prayed for the right words to come, only peripherally aware of the young homeless man who had found his way under the shelter and was now seated at the table next to ours.
Scott responded first when the woman stopped speaking. Having been divorced himself before coming to Christ, and having attempted reconciliation with his ex-wife for nearly a year, he had a heart for the woman and a story to tell of God's love even in times of trial. He talked of God's grace and shared principles from The Peacemaker. I listened and prayed fervently that the woman would be receptive, but I was starting to get nervous about the young man next to us. For some reason, he had moved closer and was listening in on our conversation. Is it even "ethical" for us to be discussing someone's marriage with him listening? I wondered.
As Scott shared with the woman about God's great love and great desire for intimate relationship with him, the woman sat with her arms crossed, visibly cold both physically and spiritually. It was becoming clear that her mind was made up. We were wasting our time-or so I thought.
The young man at the next table began to weep and got up to walk to the far end of the shelter. He stopped and just stood there, starring out at the pouring rain with his back to us.
"Excuse me ladies," Scott said as he stood up himself. "I'll be right back."
I distractedly tried to carry on the conversation with the woman, though I could not take my eyes off Scott as he walked up to the young man, put his arm on his shoulder and slipped him something. As Scott returned to our table, the man wandered off in the direction of the McDonalds just outside the park. I felt a sudden love for the man and a sense that I needed to pray for him.
About ten minutes later, the young man returned, holding a cup of coffee and a wad of bills. He had brought back the change from a $20 bill! Scott politely explained that he had intended him to keep the change. The man began to weep again and thanked us profusely and he walked away. I continued to pray for the man.
The rain soon subsided, as did any hope of reaching the woman we had come to meet. We politely wrapped up the meeting and I asked Scott to walk me to the women's restroom. "What did you say to him?" I asked Scott.
"I just said 'God loves you and wants you to get a hot meal.'"
As we neared the restrooms, I could not get the young man off my mind. He looked so ill. He should not be out in the rain. We should have done more! I prayed in the restroom that if God wanted us to do something more for the man that he would have to bring him back to us. I could not shake the feeling that we had unfinished business of some sort.
When I emerged from the restroom, there he was, wrapped in a filthy old horse blanket talking with Scott. Scott introduced him as "Brandon."
OK Lord, I can take a hint, I thought as I walked up and held out my hand to the young man. "Hi Brandon, I'm Jennifer. Have you ever asked Jesus into your heart?"
Scott looked stunned at my bold approach, but I kept my gaze on Brandon. "No," he replied.
"Would you like to?"
"Yes, I would," Brandon replied, again starting to weep.
After leading him in prayer, I gave Brandon my Bible and my raincoat (a bit girly looking with its pastel plaid lining, but he received it eagerly). Brandon shared a tragic tale with us of abandonment by his parents. He had tried to get into a local mission, but said he was awaiting the results of a TB test to get in. He pulled a small tract from his pants pocket and explained that he had been reading all about Jesus for the last week. He looked positively radiant, though he still coughed and sweated profusely.
Scott gave him a business card and asked him to call us, but we never heard from him again. From the looks of him that day, it is likely he went to be with his new Lord shortly after our meeting.
Were it not for our involvement with Peacemaker Ministries and the principles from The Peacemaker shared that day in the park, Scott and I would have missed the blessing of witnessing the lengths to which God will go to reach one of his lost sheep. God sent us out that day on a mission of restoration, unity and hope. Mission accomplished.
Jennifer Cliff
Tigard OR
I just want to thank you for writing the Relational Commitments booklet and giving it to our church. The part of the book that really influenced me was the "Commitment to Accountability and Church Discipline," especially with the lying issues I had been having with my mom. Before I left for the church meeting Sunday evening, my mom caught me trying to lie about something that I had just done even though it really wasn't that bad (being lazy on the computer). When we got to the meeting, I picked up the booklet and was amused by the story of John and Luke, so I read the entire booklet. It was while I was reading the discipline part that I looked up at my mom, who was praying with another lady, and God suddenly put the question into my head, "What would I say if my mom came by right now and asked me if there was more sin in my life?" As it happened she did. How she went about it was telling a story of a man she had known who grew up lying and because of that didn't really know himself. Then God really squeezed my heart. I suddenly realized that this was a very, very good description of myself. After this and because of an entire year of God just really poking at my life, I confessed a major sin I had committed, and we started getting into tears. Then my mom called over a very good friend of ours from our church who sat down with us and helped us through the whole process, and on that night I accepted Christ into my life. Our Community Group has a thing called E.G.G.s (Evidences of God's Grace) that is sort of a spiritual show-and-tell. So far I have two huge ostrich "eggs" to tell about -- coming to Christ and this opportunity to share my story with you.
Byrce Melton, age 14
Midlothian, VA
Click here for more information on the Relational Commitments booklet.
Thanks for the creative "table cows" displayed on the Saturday night banquet at the Annual Conference. When no one else at my table seemed interested, I claimed and kept the cow off of our table and took it home with me. My older son, Beau, had previously collected a number of items with a "cow" motif and I thought I could pass on the toy to him as a small gift.
Beau was away at college and was not able to come home for a couple of weeks. In the meantime, I kept the cow grazing on my bathroom countertop. Every time I went to brush my teeth or shave, I saw the cow and was reminded of your talk on the "fatted calf" offered by the "loving father" in celebration of the return of the prodigal son. That cow gave me a gentle nudge of my need to emulate the loving father in Luke 15. I need to be less concerned about dissecting fault and providing instruction (which is my nature), and more concerned about displaying grace and unconditional love toward both of my sons, even when (or especially when) they make mistakes.
Now, the cow remains on my bathroom counter. Even though Beau has been home, I decided that the greater gift to him would be a gentle reminder to me of how my loving father treats us and how I, as an earthly father, should treat our sons. May we all grow to show such grace in our daily walk.
Birch Bowdre
Birmingham, AL
The pastor of a neighboring church asked me if I would be the moderator for their church business meeting. A faction that had made it impossible for any business to be transacted had divided the church and he believed that my leading the meeting would keep things from getting out of hand. I consented to do this if the leadership of the church approved. The leaders of the church fasted and prayed before the meeting and I prayed also. I was afraid of what might happen in the meeting. God worked in a remarkable way. It was the hottest night of the month and no one turned on the air conditioner. I moderated the meeting and it went through without a hitch. One of the individuals who had contributed to the conflict removed his name from office and this helped to defuse the situation. God is good. The church is at peace and is going forward without conflict.
Anthony Gibson
Darien, CT
My church has existed, as a congregation, for well over a century. Unfortunately, a long and frequently glorious history does not guarantee a peaceful present. In the late 1980s, it was wracked by two church splits in close succession. As a part of the second, the congregation voted to leave the denomination in 1990 because many did not trust that the grievances would be handled properly.
You might assume that would be the end of the story. They might join another denomination, but certainly the congregation's differences would never be resolved. But the Holy Spirit really is at work in our midst.
A committee was appointed to seek reconciliation, but despite the faithful labors of its members, it was dissolved after several years without any visible success. By the end of 1993, another congregation had accepted many of those who had left onto her roles, turning my church into a mission work. Tensions continued to run high between the congregations. There was calm, but no peace in the denomination.
In the late 1990s, smoldering embers flared up. After yet another appeal regarding my church appeared on its docket, the denominational leadership appointed a new committee to seek reconciliation in the denomination. Years had passed since the initial controversies, but peace seemed as far away as ever.
Then the Holy Spirit began to reveal what he had been working in the hearts of many. Members of the congregation and the denomination began looking at the logs in their own eyes and removing them. At a Spring 2000 meeting, a motion was passed in which they asked forgiveness from the former members of my church for several sins, which had led them to leave the denomination. A month later, those former members extended forgiveness, and in turn asked forgiveness for violating their fourth membership vow by not properly pursuing their grievances through the church courts. Where there was sin, forgiveness by God's grace now abounded.
On April 29, 2001, a most unusual service of recognition and installation occurred. In these services, a mission work is recognized as a new and separate congregation, able to function on her own. In this service, however, the church recognized wasn't really new. She had existed for over a century, and had a long and now even more glorious past. Members came together with other members to celebrate the Lord's work of reconciliation in this place. Those who had been on opposing sides for years participated in the service without a trace of rancor, with only love. Surely this is not the end, and surely we must continue to labor to love one another more perfectly. But even more surely will the God who has already done so much complete the great work he has begun.
Brothers and sisters, rejoice over what the Holy Spirit has done in your midst. Tell this story to one another because the Cross of Christ is effective. Ours is the ministry of reconciliation, for we have been reconciled to God through Jesus Christ, and through Jesus Christ we have been reconciled to one another.
Matthew Kingsbury
Denver, CO
I scored a first when I arose this week, seeing the work of God suffering. I went to confront two brothers who have been causing harm to the work of God through brewing conflict. My Peacemaker Ministries' exposure is a blessing. I have resolved to put in practice what I learned and the results have been incredible. The two brothers I confronted and went step-by-step with were able to reconcile with the pastor, and you should have seen me rejoicing in my closet because I had a praise item! I have begun reading the latest book by Ken Sande on the family because I realize I have so much to give to the body of Christ through The Peacemaker.... Another brother works for a bank and he invited me to put up a proposal to teach peacemaking at his bank.
A Zambian believer
A couple of weeks ago, my wife, Nancy, and I went for a walk. We had discussed going on this hike the day before and I had arranged my schedule so we could go on a long walk. Well, Nancy had an appointment that evening and had to get back at a certain time but we were late in getting started because a service man came unannounced at the last minute so Nancy resisted going on the long walk that I had anticipated.
I was upset, so after we had walked a short distance, I said. "Let's stop walking and go back to the car," but Nancy wanted to walk further so that I wouldn't be disappointed. But I was angry and I accused her of scheduling an appointment so that we had to cut our walk short. This convinced her to agree to return to the car and I gave her the silent treatment all the way home as I self-talked and planned a course of action for future walks. I was making myself miserable.
As I brooded, many Scriptures came to my mind that convinced me that I was wrong, such as: "Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14) and "You husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with someone weaker, since she is a woman; and show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered" (1 Peter 3:7).
I hadn't been home for more than a few minutes when I was convicted that if I wanted to enjoy a relationship with the Lord I had better do something about my relationship with Nancy. It was time to use my peacemaking skills (which I knew all along but I didn't want to do it). I went to Nancy and admitted that I was acting like a spoiled child and was pouting and that I was sorry for my behavior. She forgave me.
I know that the conviction that I was wrong did not come from me any more than the motivation to go to her and confess. It was the Holy Spirit that called the Scripture to my mind at the right time and who motivated my change of attitude and behavior by convicting me of sin, what was the right thing to do and the consequences if I didn't do it.
John DeMund
Akron, OH
My husband was experiencing a down cycle at work. He gets paid by commission only and is responsible for paying the salary of two full time employees. I am sure you could imagine his frustration. He would often come home from work and release this frustration on me.
Although I felt very indignant at first and wanted to return the ill will, I searched for my Slippery Slope cards. I made a decision after I found them to overlook this offense and prayed for God to give me the strength and patience to do so, considering the circumstances.
Every time my husband started to rant about what was going on, I would listen to what he was saying, see if there was any kernel of truth to it and then when the time was right give him biblical encouragement.
One Saturday afternoon I came home from an afternoon with friends and my husband was there at the door ripe with apologies and his behavior has changed dramatically! He also thanked me for being patient with him and not being ugly in return.
We have been married for 17 years and that was the first time I can recall that I did not react to him in anger when he lashed out at me and start bringing up the past! I am so glad to have the bible as my guidebook on this journey. When I use biblical principles in my everyday situations, God grants an extra measure of peace to me and those around me.
Kristen Khan
Rocklin CA
Just over a year ago, our son married a lady with a then 9-year-old son. They had dated for more than 3 years and we were delighted. Our new "adopted" grandson is just as much ours as any of the others. We invited both boys, the now 10-year-old and the 13- year-old to spend a week with us in the summer.
They flew alone from Southern California to Texas. We had many fun things to do and enjoyed every minute of it: Monday night football in Shreveport, Louisiana to watch the Cowboys and Saints, shopping at the Bass Pro Shop, fishing, hiking, garage sales, and eating out at East Texas places unfamiliar to California boys.
As our week came to a close, we took them to visit our neighbor and friend who is a hair stylist. Both boys had long hairstyles and had been asking to get a haircut so we found time on Saturday afternoon. The 13-year-old wanted about an inch taken off all over and the 10-year-old said he wanted his to be only 1 inch long all over. The hairstylist kept questioning him if he was really sure he wanted it short. She cut about an inch off and asked if he liked it. He said, "No, I want it only an inch long all over." She took about another inch off and asked again if he liked it. His answer was the same so this time she cut it short.
The boys were planning how the next day when they got off the plane, the younger one would pretend to be with another family since his mom wouldn't recognize him. His older brother would tell them he stayed in Texas! I was thinking how his mom would be so happy that he finally got rid of all that long hair although I sort of liked it long. I had to admit he really did look handsome with short hair but very different.
They had a weather delay in the flight the next day so their time on the plane stretched to 4 + hours. We were all sending text messages to learn the status since they were travelling alone. Finally, we learned they were cleared for take-off and we relaxed a little. When we realized we hadn't heard from them and there had been plenty of time for them to land and get home, I called our daughter-in-law's cell phone to be sure they made it.
Our son answered and assured me they had made it home safely and the boys were outside playing. I realized he hadn't commented on the haircuts so I casually asked about how they liked the haircuts. He told me it wasn't good. She had worked for months to get his hair just as it was. I now realized why he had answered her phone; she was too upset to talk to me! We ended our call after a few more minutes of chitchat.
Now, how would I handle this? I had obviously hurt my new daughter-in-law. She wasn't answering her phone. I decided to send a text message and maybe she would read it. "I am so sorry. It was wrong of me to allow him to have his hair cut without speaking to you first. I love you and don't want anything to stand between us. Will you please forgive me?"
It only took a few minutes for her to reply. "I need to let him make more of his own decisions. I think he had wanted it cut and didn't know how to tell me. That's why he took the opportunity while he was in Texas. Thank you for loving him and treating him like your own. I am glad you were there for him."
This message was followed shortly by another one, "By the way, of course I forgive you."
Several more text messages and e-mails between us had us each confessing and assuring the other of our love. It was now a contest of who could confess the most!
I realized that only months ago, I might not have been able to recognize my responsibility and apologize for my wrong. I thank God for a daughter-in-law who is a mature Christian and forgives me when I offend her or sin against her. I am also thankful that God is teaching me better ways of relating with my family.
Learning to be a Peacemaker in Texas....
Dana Johnson
Whitehouse, TX
In the course of trying to cultivate a "culture of peace" in our congregation, we have seen God working in amazing ways. One of the most notable involves two longstanding member families where a child from one family sexually molested a minor child of the other family. Against all earthly odds, both families are still in the church and working toward full reconciliation. The process isn't complete yet, but God is powerfully at work, and we trust that He will bring about true peace. We thank you, Peacemaker Ministries, for your critical role in this process.
Tim Sir
Cresco, IA
My husband and I were expecting our daughter and two little babies to stay with us over a 3-month period in which her husband was going to be in Australia finishing up his studies.
Both of us knew that our present home was not built with grandbabies in mind. The living room was small, the dining room was more of an extension to the kitchen and, other than their bedrooms, there really wasn't play area for the babies.
So, we began to brainstorm solutions …. an attic over the garage, an addition onto the house, a mobile home by the side of the house? Two of these alternatives got abandoned, and we were left contemplating an addition onto the house. But where? And how?
As the different decisions were being contemplated, a tension began to grow between the two of us. I longed for a big playroom (a racquetball court would have sufficed with rings hanging from the ceiling, mattresses on the floor, swings … you name it)! My husband had in mind something VERY much smaller (a tool shed was more like it).
As you can imagine we started getting entrenched with our positions, mainly because we were after our own agendas and not that of the Lord. Now we were pitted in a no-win conflict, each of us determined to change the other person's position, if not by logic, than by demand.
I am a certified Christian conciliator. And my husband has also gone through lots of training. Doesn't that give you confidence?
The good news is that we came to realize that we needed help …. we, the great conciliators. So, we called our friends (also Peacemaker trained) and asked them if they would help us. It was humbling, and that was a good thing!
We do have a playroom behind our house that is some kind of compromise between a racquetball court and a tool shed. Of course, much more important than the playhouse was the recognition that our sinful hearts can get as messed up as the next guy and are in need of similar peacemaking counsel.
This "episode" has now become part of our testimony and we are able to encourage others not to escape or enter into battle, but to get help for our blemished hearts. And my love for my husband, who was willing to get help, is greater than it ever was before the "episode". He is committed to His God and to me …. in that order. I feel cherished by them both!
Bev Forrest
Olympia, WA
Becky and I have taught the Young Peacemaker to our church's 5th grade Sunday School class each fall for the past 10 years. One of our great joys is to be approached by a parent who reports that the principles their child learned in our class came up in a family conflict and how helpful it had been. This now occurs with some regularity.
Chuck Hendricks
Dallas, TX
The Friday after the 2006 Peacemaker Conference, the Pastor of one of the congregations I oversee called with a bit of a problem. A member of his congregation made a rather strong and offensive comment at a congregational meeting regarding an important decision the Church Council made in the previous few months. To make matters worse, the spouse of the outspoken member was on the Church Council. The Pastor and other Council Members were angry at the public comments as well as the Council Member and took their anger out on the Council Member. He immediately, and with great anger, resigned his position on the Council. Thus the Pastor's call. He acknowledged his own sin of making uncharitable judgments against both the husband and wife. After coaching him a bit about his need to "go and be reconciled," we said our goodbyes and hung up.
Suddenly I realized I forgot to do something important in a ministry of reconciliation. I forgot to remind the Pastor of God's promise of abundant forgiveness even for him! I called back, but he had already left for the day. I left him a message to call me ASAP. He did - on Monday morning.
I began by apologizing for my failure to say something of vital importance to him; I told him I failed to speak God's word of forgiveness to him. I then offered the powerful words of the traditional Lutheran liturgy of absolution: "As a called and ordained servant of the Word, I forgive you all your sins, especially for the sin of making unkind judgments against another." His immediate response was, "Thank you so much! I've been waiting for somebody to assure me of God's forgiveness all weekend!"
While I can't report whether or not he has been successful in bringing about reconciliation with those he and the Church Council offended, he does know the power of God's amazing word of grace, mercy and peace.
Dale Kleimola
Milan, MI
I teach high school at a 7-12 building. I was dealing with a 7th grade boy who had put a few dozen June bugs in a female student's locker. She was deathly afraid of them, and of course, the boy was quite pleased with his prank.
At one key moment in the conflict, I had the young man step into my classroom (full of students) so that he did not gloat over his misdeed until the young lady arrived at class. Unknowingly, I had embarrassed him. When it came time to clean up the bugs, he flatly refused. I am 6'5" tall, and (a svelte) 250 lbs; however, this little guy looked (way up) into my eyes, and told me he wouldn't clean up the bugs because, "...you ain't my mother or my father".
Instead of snatching this little guy out of his shoes, I tried to quickly think through the events of the previous few minutes, searching for the young man's "interest" which precipitated his stiffened will. When it dawned on me that I might have embarrassed him, I apologized immediately. I told him that I didn't handle the situation very well and asked him to forgive me. Right away his will softened, and he responded, "I didn't handle myself very well either." He immediately went over to the locker, and cleaned up his mess. Sometimes confession and getting the log out of your own eye are the keys to unlocking a conflict!
Rob Alleman
Morrice, MI
Having just finished my first reading of The Peacemaker the prior evening, I had one pressing issue for the Lord as I knelt in prayer that morning: "Lord, do you want me to do more than apply these principles it in my own life?"
God only knew the challenges I would face hauling logs from stands of timber in my own eyes on a more-or-less hourly basis. Wasn't it a bit presumptuous to suppose I could help others in conflict? As a lawyer--worse yet, a "litigator"--I worked daily to help "resolve" disputes through the judicial system. But helping others resolve conflicts biblically? That seemed too sacred a calling to even contemplate. I purposed to wait on the Lord for an answer as long as it took.
Four hours later, I found myself thumbing through a completed client intake form and a stack of papers documenting an employment dispute. A potential new client fidgeted nervously on the other side of my desk. Her grim countenance did not match the woman described in the glowing performance evaluations she had included in the stack. She was a nurse, a "true servant, blessed with the gift of nurture," as one review described her.
I set down the stack of papers, and met her stern gaze, still feeling a tinge of pride that the referring lawyer was one I had once faced in a hotly contested case.
"Phil says you're a real pit bull in the courtroom," she said without a smile. "That's why I'm here. I want to teach them a lesson."
I couldn't bring myself to tell her that the "pit bull" she was describing was the "old me." Almost involuntarily, however, I found myself revealing to her the "new me," even at the risk of loosing a client. I had no real choice. The words on the papers I had just reviewed showed this woman to be a Christian. Her letters were filled with scripture and references to "what Jesus would do." Likewise, her employer was a Christian hospital and several of her supervisors appeared to be sincere believers.
"I don't shy away from a good fight," I replied with a polite smile. "But I always try to help clients count the costs before bringing a lawsuit."
"I thought these cases were handled on a contingent fee basis; I only pay your fees if we win."
"Yes, but there are other costs: Stress, distraction, time……"
"I'm ready to file," she interrupted. "How long will it take?"
She was clearly in a "no nonsense" mood, so I got straight to the point: "Have you considered what First Corinthians six has to say about filing this suit?"
The poor woman was visibly stunned. Her "pit bull" was citing scripture!
I pulled my only copy of The Peacemaker from my desk drawer and proceeded to share with her what God had been revealing to me. To my shame, I did not give her my copy of the book (it had too many notes and markings to part with), but I did give her directions to the Christian bookstore, just a few blocks away. I felt sure they had copies, as I had pulled mine from their well-stocked shelves only days before. The woman promised to read the book before proceeding with her suit. As she left my office, I prayed that she would.
She called me a few days later. She sounded different, less burdened. She had, indeed, read the book and just had to tell me what God had done for her.
"I have been a professing Christian for ten years," she explained, "but I met Jesus face to face in your office. I wanted vengeance. But He loved me enough to intervene and direct my feet right back to his word. I'm not going to sue. I love Him too much for that."
That was ten years ago. Since that day when God so clearly answered my prayer, I have given away dozens of copies of The Peacemaker and have done what I can to promote biblical peacemaking in my practice and in my community. It never ceases to amaze me when similar stories find their way back to me. Conflicts really do bring opportunities to glorify God.
I thank God daily for Peacemaker Ministries and the good work they do around the world to bring reconciliation to people like that woman in my office--and to people like me.
Scott Cliff
Tigard, OR
This morning I felt myself stuck in sin. A little later, I realized how important the confession of, and repentance of that sin was. I learned God doesn't want us to live in that place, not to camp out. He wants us to immediately be cleansed of it. He wants righteousness for us, which is made possible by the blood of Jesus Christ - to Him be the glory. Just as fast as the sin was committed, and as I confessed, the sin vanished. I now see the beauty, joy, and comfort which the Lord would have us live in EVERY MOMENT of our lives. Praise be to the name of the Lord for his grace and forgiveness, and for His love which makes it possible!
I see people in this moment the way the Lord does. Not for any part of their outside or the way people see others, but for their character, their desire to see good done, the desire to seek the LORD, see His will done, and for His desire for ALL people to live in HIS PEACE. In that same way, I am experiencing the restoration of relationships and peace in my life. I have such gratitude for His goodness. I shouldn't be experiencing this kind of joy, but it is made possible by the sacrifice of Christ. All of us are sinners. Every one of us, but…..we have Jesus Christ to make us whole and righteous before God. Praise be to the holy name of the Lord God Almighty!
Shawn Evans
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
An agitated voice greeted me as I picked up the phone. It was the church grounds keeper who had just learned from the business manager of my plans for vacation Bible school. No way could I use the front lawn of the church for the bamboo global village! The children would trample the grass that he had worked so hard to get in tip top shape. "Besides the probability that the bamboo pieces would root in the yard", he added. "You can use the upper parking lot", he offered generously. “And add a good 10 minutes to our transition time”, I thought ruefully. I tried to picture building the huts in the hard gravel lot.
Thankfully, I had just read in my quiet time that day "Honor those who labor among you". I remembered how many times I had seen this man hard at work on the church grounds with mower and blower. This scripture helped me to pause and recall the Young Peacemaker lesson I just taught to my 4th and 5th grade SS class about the opportunities in conflict. In my mind flashed a picture of a big “O” popping into the air like a clay skeet. “Oh”, I thought, “steady, steady”. I took aim at the target – not our hardworking groundskeeper, but at the three opportunities in conflict – glorifying God, serving others, and becoming more like Christ.
As I remembered the labors of this man and sought to honor him, we were able to fully discuss the situation. I heard his concerns and presented my position. Finally, he said, “No one has ever listened to me before.” When those words were said, I immediately felt God’s pleasure. I heard in my spirit, “You have won your brother.” Even though the issue of where to put the global village was not yet resolved, I knew from God’s perspective I had won the conflict and that He would work out the rest. My brother must have felt the Holy Spirit too. After a few minutes more conversation he said, “You know, God is showing me that those children are more important than the grass. You can put the bamboo village there – just so you clean it all up.” “Thanks”, I said, but it was almost anticlimactic.
Later that day the business manager happened to see me at church. "Sorry about the problem with your plans for VBS. The groundskeeper was pretty hot when he learned you wanted to put the global village out front. He gave me an earful. Did he blow you out?" "No", I said. "We worked it out." “How did you do that?”, he asked amazed. “It was just a little target practice.” I grinned.
Oh that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees, then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands. Psalm 119:6
Carla Vitez
Charlotte, NC
I spent 3 years as a missionary physician in a mission's hospital in Vietnam (1966 - 1969). The hospital was under the Christian & Missionary Alliance church; I went under Mennonite Central Committee. Each day pastors spoke to the 100- 200 people waiting on the clinic porch. Many responded. We still have many friends there. The way of peace works. I use a brochure, 'Seven Steps to Forgiveness" from Abundant Living Ministries in my work which is mainly among the Amish. We try to teach and model forgiveness as God forgives us.
Harold Kraybill
Lebanon, Pennsylvania
I always tell people that out of all the pre-marital books, counseling, and marriage classes I took at seminary and other books I have read on marriages - the #1 thing I am grateful for in my marriage is the fact that both my husband and I had peacemaking training before we were married. In fact, Peacemaker Ministries is where we met!
No other training has proven to be more beneficial or practical for helping us work through conflict - whether it is in our marriage or someone else's that we are coaching. No other training has provided the biblical references and/or techni-use like Peacemakers.
One of the best things about reading The Peacemaker is that I read it to learn how to handle conflict, but what I discovered along the way was far more pivotal - and that was a deeper love for Jesus.
Kate Forrest
Bozeman, MT
I had always visited the grave out of a sense of obligation, but this time was different. After teaching the Four Promises of Forgiveness and the Replacement Principle, I realized that, just maybe, it wasn't too late to heal this relationship, too. After all, I seemed to be the one who had always held on to the bitterness.
I prayed that God would help me keep the four promises I was making: I will not dwell on this incident. I will not bring this incident up and use it against you. I will not talk to others about this incident. I will not let this incident stand between us or hinder our future relationship.
I wrote down five good memories and a thank you note, which I left at the grave, with a prayer of thanksgiving to God. As I walked back to the car, I noticed a surprising gift entwined in the sharp tangle of boxwood near the grave: a strand of honeysuckle woven in and around the branches. Could it be a visible reminder of the promise of sweetness that had already taken hold in my heart? Praise be to God! Oh, the riches of His grace! What treasures He gives us when we let go of bitterness and unforgiveness and walk in His peace!
Lynn Pace
Frederick, MD
While the principles of Peacemaking are not new to me personally and I've used them in teaching and counseling, the principles were really proven to me just over a year ago when a couple I was counseling grabbed the truths concerning their heart and the need to confess and forgive. They promptly taught these to their children and others who either needed to be taught personal peacemaking skills of needed assisted peacemaking. So far the ripple effect has spread to 11 total people and still growing. The truth of God in Peacemaking is setting these people free!
Dan Pugh
Madison, WI
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