Channels of Peace
Scripture Reading — Colossians 3:15-17
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.
Colossians 3:15
Are you familiar with the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi? It begins with the words “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.” Then it describes some ways we can spread God’s peace around us: “Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy.”
This beautiful prayer reminds us of the role we have as Christians. Like all of God’s blessings, the gift of peace is not intended to be something we keep to ourselves. God, who has made peace with a rebellious creation through the death of Jesus (see Colossians 1:19-20), calls us to be peacemakers in his world.
This is a striking testimony to God’s willingness to stoop down to our level. Cosmic peace has been secured by God in Christ, yet God tells us to “let the peace of Christ rule.” How incredibly humble of God to place the advancement of his peace in our hands.
Of course, God doesn’t require our help to do his work in the world. But he wants us to participate in the glory of Christ’s rule over creation. He wants us to live up to the high calling of peacemaking.
Is there someone God is waiting for you to make peace with?
Lord, the only peace we can share with others is the peace you have first given us. Increase our desire to see your peace flow out of us to bless a hurting world. Amen.
About the author — Peter Hoytema
Peter Hoytema has been a pastor for nearly 30 years and has served congregations in Ontario and New Jersey. He is currently the pastor of a congregation in Strathroy, Ontario. He is a graduate of Calvin Theological Seminary and San Francisco Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Grace, are the parents of four adult children.
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