The Gospel: "La Clave" of Biblical Peacemaking (reprinted with permission)

Through the gospel, the foundational G, the Lord enables us to live out the Four G's of peacemaking. As we stand in awe of his matchless grace, we find more joy in glorifying God than in pursuing our own selfish ends. When we realize that God has mercy on those who confess their sins, our defensiveness lifts and we are able to admit our wrongs. As we accept and benefit from the way the gospel lovingly shows us our sin, we are inspired to gently correct and restore others who have done wrong. And as we rejoice in the liberating forgiveness of God, we are empowered to go and forgive others in the same way. Through the gospel, God provides both the model and motivation for peacemaking!

Taken from The Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict
by Ken Sande, Updated Edition (Grand Rapids, Baker Books, 2003) pp. 13-14

Food for Thought

From The University of Salsa comes the following definition of clave: "Clave rhythm is the basis of Afro-Latin musical styles and is considered the key, the identity, the root, and the 'soul' of the music. It is the temporal key, the main organizing principle, to which every element of arrangement and improvisation in the music must be aligned. The clave rhythm pattern ('La Clave' in Spanish) is therefore embedded in all parts of a piece, from vocals to violins, whether the instrument...is actually played, or not ('implied clave'). Clave is the primary rule and the chief factor that defines all the music called 'Salsa.' Most musically connected, authentic, or culturally/traditionally trained dancers use the clave rhythm as a focus or "metronome" in salsa music to stay in time to the foundation and 'soul' of the music, allowing for a natural appearance and rhythmic, free expression of the music."

When biblical peacemaking is practiced by someone who has not drunk deeply and personally (and recently) of the grace of God, the result is a "chalky aftertaste" for everyone involved. It's like salsa dancing with someone who went to a class and learned all the steps but who doesn't feel "la clave". The key to successful peacemaking isn't certification through Peacemaker Ministries; it's having your heart pierced regularly by "la clave" of the gospel.