A "Peace" of Colossians

Over the last few months I've been leading our church through Paul’s letter to the Colossian church. I have always loved this letter because of the place in which it elevates Jesus. I love the description of Him there in chapter one- Rescuer, Image of the invisible God, Creator, Sustainer, Centerpiece of everything that has ever been, Redeemer...there is so much about the Christ there in the first chapter. A detailed examination of this could be an entire series of posts in themselves.

In chapter 3 Paul has shifted from examining who Jesus is and is now addressing this church's proper response to who Jesus is. Paul does this by giving them practical instructions on conduct and living. He says in verse 15 to "let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts to which indeed you were called into one body" (NAS). So many times I do not see the right picture of that word peace. I feel that we have made this into something that is almost fluffy. But it's not just a warm fuzzy feeling that comes over me and masks the bad stuff in my life. Sure, trusting in Jesus will bring an assurance that He is in control of all things, especially in times of suffering, pain and uncertainty. But this peace that should rule our hearts is the peace that He purchased between God and man. The redemption that Believers have entered into...the ability now not to sin...the demand for Jesus to be "our very life" (Col. 3:4). This opens up a new realm for the word "peace." It's not political peace that we should seek. It is inevitable that sinful man will engage in conflict. It is not a peaceful, balanced core or center that New Age thought tells us we need. Instead, the word peace that guides our hearts goes back to the fundamentals of salvation. Everything that was made accessible through the peace that Christ made should now be what becomes the ruler of our lives. I would much rather have this definition of peace in my life instead of a calm feeling. This peace is not one that leaves after the situation subsides. It is enduring throughout the ages.

I don't think this idea of peace ruling our lives would be nearly as big of a deal if it were not for the presentation and explanation of who Jesus is back in chapter 1 of Colossians. Now, because that One who is all of those things has purchased peace, we are called to live a life of holiness. Because it is Jesus, the Creator and first born of all creation who sustains all things, my heart longs to live a life of holiness. I no longer seek peace. I am enthralled with living a life in response to peace.