How Can You Be a Peacemaker – Spiritual Story

Carl and Sam were at odds with each other. They could not even remember the initial cause of friction – but their hostility had festered through the years. A deeply concerned deacon prayed that God would use him as a peacemaker.

He called on Carl. What do you think of Sam? he asked.

He's the sorriest guy in town!

But, countered the deacon, you have to admit that he's a hard-working man.

No one can deny that, said Carl.

I've never known a person who worked harder.

Next the deacon visited Sam. Do you know what Carl said about you? No, but I can imagine his lies, he responded angrily.

This may surprise you, said the deacon, but he said he's never known a harder worker.

He said that? Sam was stunned.

What do you think of Carl? asked the deacon.

It is no secret that I have absolutely no use for him.

But you must admit he's honest in business, said the deacon. There's no getting around that, said Sam. In business he's a man you can trust.

Later the deacon met Carl again. Do you know what Sam said about you? He claims you're absolutely trustworthy in business, that you are scrupulously honest. Well, how 'bout that, reacted Carl with a smile.

Soon the peacemaking deacon noticed Sam and Carl would cautiously nod in a friendly sort of way. Before long they were shaking hands, talking, even visiting in each others' homes.

Today they are best of friends.

This story was rewritten by Malladi Venkata Krishna Murthy – the original author is unknown.

If you liked this story, you'll love this! We've compiled a list of the top spiritual stories that our readers love. You can read them here.

What Is the Spiritual Moral / Message of the “How Can You Be a Peacemaker” Story?

This story unveils a profound spiritual lesson about perception and the transformative power of understanding. It illuminates the intricacies of human interactions, challenging our entrenched perspectives and revealing the potency of shifting our perceptions from judgment to understanding.

Carl and Sam's initial discord, rooted in long-forgotten grievances, mirrored a common human experience where animosity festers, clouding our interactions and relationships. However, the deacon's intervention serves as a catalyst for change, embodying the essence of a peacemaker guided by divine grace.

The pivotal moment in this narrative arrives when the deacon, driven by a higher purpose, dares to traverse the chasm of hostility. By delicately probing Carl and Sam's perspectives about each other, the deacon unravels a profound truth – the contrast between perception and reality.

Through the deacon's interactions, a divine alchemy unfolds. Each man's perspective about the other is challenged, reframing their perceptions from adversarial judgments to acknowledgment of virtues. The revelation of each other's positive attributes – hard work, honesty, and trustworthiness – acts as a catalyst, shattering the walls of animosity that had confined their relationship.

This story carries a spiritual message resonating far beyond the boundaries of Carl and Sam's reconciliation. It beckons us to introspect and reevaluate our perceptions about others. It nudges us to recognize that our judgments are often clouded by limited perspectives, concealing the virtues and merits of those we deem adversaries.

Furthermore, it invites us to embody the role of peacemakers in our own lives. By seeking understanding, acknowledging virtues, and reframing our perceptions, we can pave the way for reconciliation and harmony, not only in personal relationships but within the collective fabric of society.

The deacon's approach reflects the essence of spiritual guidance, rooted in compassion and a higher understanding. His ability to unveil the hidden virtues within Carl and Sam lays the groundwork for transformation. It echoes the spiritual principle of seeing beyond the surface, acknowledging the divine essence within each individual, regardless of past grievances or differences.

As Carl and Sam gradually shed their preconceived notions and embrace the virtues they had previously overlooked, their relationship transforms. The initial discord dissolves into mutual respect, understanding, and friendship, revealing the immense power of perception shift in fostering unity and peace.

Ultimately, this narrative urges us to transcend the limitations of our judgments and biases. It encourages us to perceive others through a lens of understanding, recognizing the inherent goodness and virtues within every individual. By adopting this compassionate approach, we can foster reconciliation, bridge divides, and sow the seeds of enduring harmony in our world.