December 15, 2023
"But now in Christ Jesus you who were once far off have been bought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility."
The peace of Christ, when it works in the hearts of men, not only brings peace with God but also peace with others. Unity comes as a result of a community who are living under the peace and purposes of Christ. The unity we see here on earth is but a shadow of what we will experience when we are with Christ in his eternal kingdom. The peace he creates between men and women of all ages, races, and backgrounds is only possible when we are fully transformed by the reality of the gospel in our lives. We are left longing for such peace while we reside on earth. Yet Revelation 7:9 tells us of “a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation…” Such peace between the men and women is possible once sin has faced its ultimate defeat at the hands of Christ. When we all dwell together in perfect harmony worshipping with one voice at the feet of King Jesus, we will see such peace first hand. Let us long for that day with great anticipation of the joy that will be found and let us live in such a way where that perfect peace may be glimpsed in our lives now in the community of faith.
Lord, put peace in my heart. Give me peace with all people according to your Word. Put a longing in my heart for your ultimate peace when all your children gather together and praise your name forever. Teach me to be a beacon of peace in my life now and show the unbelieving world what is possible when we submit our lives to you.