Christ's peace must reign in our hearts.....

Colossians 3:15 “Christ’s peace must reign in our hearts, since as members of the one body you have been called to that peace. Dedicate yourselves to thankfulness.” (NAB)

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (NIV)

“Let the peace of Christ guide all decisions, for you were called to live as one united body; and always be thankful.” (Phillips)

Heavenly Father, Christ’s peace must “reign in our hearts”. This is to be the rule not the exception. Christ is the Prince of Peace. As his church we too must be united in peace. We are “called” to this peaceful unity. No matter how many churches or how many denominations there are, we should still show a unified front to the world. The world should see the same characteristics in all of your people….love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, self-control. This is our fruit. This is what we are destined to produce, because it is our nature as followers of Christ to do so. The tree doesn’t choose what type of fruit to produce. That “decision” is in the seed. Christ is the seed. Christ’s trees produce Christ’s fruit. This is the life we inherit as your children…a life of peace and unity. “Let the peace of Christ guide all decisions.” What is this peace of Christ? Christ’s peace was a result of his obedience to his Father’s will in all things. There was no friction, no sin, no lack of harmony. Christ was at peace because he and his Father were one. Christ died to bring that same harmony to us. His obedience freed us from the sin and death that separate us from our Father. When Christ arose from the grave, we arose with him…..free once more to know peace and love and joy in your presence. Christ’s victory bought us the peace we need! As “the way, the truth, and the life” he brings us into peaceful harmony and unites us as one. One way, one truth, one life. All who are in Christ are also in the Father. This is peace. This is “home”. This is where we are called to be. “Always be thankful”. How can we not thank the One who brings peace and salvation? Thank you, Father, thank you, Prince of Peace, thank you, Holy Spirit! Amen.