June 18 – Peace (Colossians 3:15-17)

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” (Colossians 3:15)

IN WORD:
Peace is elusive. Not only is it elusive to governments in the world’s hot spots of conflict, it is elusive in public and private institutions. Unfortunately, it is also elusive in churches and families. And, most unsettling to us, it is elusive in our own hearts.
Ever since the Garden of Eden, the human heart is by nature unsettled. We are restless creatures because we have separated ourselves from our created purpose. The natural dependence our first parents felt for God has been lost on us. Insecurity reigns within; and where insecurity reigns, peace doesn’t.
The reason we live in a world that is in conflict is because we have hearts in conflict. We want to institute the rule of Christ in our hearts, but He must replace the reign of self — with all its fears, ambitions, passions, and false hopes — and that takes time. Human beings in such turmoil find it difficult to live in peace with others, whether it is on the job, in the church, or at home. Those who do not get along with others are invariably uncomfortable with themselves. Those who are at peace within are almost always at peace with others. Even when others rage against them — as they did with Jesus on the cross, Stephen before the Sanhedrin, and Paul from city to city — they do nothing to fuel the conflict. They have no need. They are at peace with themselves and at peace with god.

IN DEED:
Paul says we are to let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts. He doesn’t say peace is simply to exist in our hearts. He doesn’t say it is to influence our hearts periodically. It is to rule.
Take this diagnostic test: Are you in conflict with others? It is likely a reflection of the condition of your heart. Ask God to still your turbulent waters. Let Jesus rule in the deepest corners of your being. Know the depths of His peace.

“You have made us for Yourself, and our hearts are restless till they find their rest in You.” -St. Augustine-