When I was growing up in the 1970s a "peacemaker" was somebody like Henry Kissenger, Secretary of State for the US, hosting summits with leaders of foreign countries, like China and Egypt and Israel, mostly in black and white photos. It seemed like a pretty prestigious and elite job for somebody really smart, powerful, diplomatic and connected.
I was mistaken. Peacemaking is not a job to which a person is appointed. It is a role, to which we are all called.
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God."
That's a pretty interesting thing for the Jesus to say! It seems that if we want to find our true identity, our true place in the family of God, we need to seek opportunities to bridge relationships, conducting summits in offices, conference rooms, schools and home kitchens.
Effective peacemaking isn't about reconciling differences, but recognizing common interests.