Welcome to today’s devotional “Christ our Peace.” Peace is something that is often talked about but rarely understood, especially in a world bombarded with news of wars, violence of all kinds, and conflicts.
In the absence of peace, it’s so easy to become overwhelmed and lose hope. However, as believers, we have access to a peace, which is divine, that surpasses all understanding. This peace is found in Christ, who is our peace.
Key Takeaway to Christ Our Peace
- Christ Our Peace: In Christ, we find a peace that transcends circumstances and surpasses human understanding.
Anchor Bible Verse of the Day
For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation.
Ephesians 2:14 (NKJV)
In this verse of Ephesians 2:14, Paul talks about the transformative power of Christ in the realm of peace.
Christ is not merely a provider of peace or a conduit to peace – He is our peace.
The imagery of Christ breaking down the middle wall of separation speaks of reconciliation – reconciliation not only between humanity and God but also among diverse groups of people.
Key Explanations
- He Himself is our peace: Christ doesn’t merely bring peace; He embodies peace. The very essence of Christ is a harmonizing force that unites, reconciles, and brings tranquility.
- Broken down the middle wall of separation: Refers to the removal of barriers that divide, or any walls of enmity and division in our lives today.
Reflection on Christ Our Peace
- The nature of Christ’s peace: We’re invited to dwell on the nature of the peace that Christ offers. It’s an enduring peace that goes beyond human comprehension – picture a serene lake undisturbed by the ripples of external chaos; that’s the kind of peace Christ extends to us.
- Breaking Down Walls of Separation: I call this the architectural metaphor for the removal of barriers that segregate, alienate, and foster enmity. Think about the walls in your life – walls of pride, hatred, racism, nationality, ideology, prejudice, or resentment. Christ, as our peace, dismantles these walls, paving the way for unity and reconciliation.
- Personal and Communal Peace: Extend this reflection to your personal life. Where do you need Christ’s peace to intervene? Is it in a fractured relationship, a turbulent emotional state, or a season of uncertainty? Allow the peace of Christ to permeate these areas.
In Colossians 3:15, we read:
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.
This calls us to let the peace of God rule in our hearts – an active, governing force that not only resides in you, but also rules over your thoughts, emotions, and actions.
(Ephesians 2:14)
Reflecting on Christ as our peace also prompts us to confront the challenges in our pursuit of peace.
Are there aspects of your life where you struggle to experience His peace?
Acknowledge these challenges, knowing that Christ’s peace is not contingent on our circumstances but on His unchanging nature.
Today, the challenge is to allow the peace of Christ to not only dwell in our hearts but also govern our interactions with others. It’s an invitation to extend the same reconciling grace we’ve received to those around us.
Call to Action
Today, let’s set out on an intentional peacemaking journey. Let’s actively seek opportunities to bridge divides, reconcile relationships, and be instruments of the peace that Christ has bestowed upon us.
Is there a family member, co-worker, neighbor, or friend you need to reconcile the differences between you? Make that move, and place that call today. Better still, walk to the person and tell them you want the peace of Christ to dwell amongst you.
Blessings!
(Ephesians 21:4)
Prayer Points for Today
- Reconciliation in Relationships: Pray for the grace to reconcile strained relationships and be agents of peace in your spheres of influence.
- Personal Peace: Ask for the peace of Christ to rule in your heart, especially in areas where anxiety or discord may dwell.
- Global Peace: Pray for peace on a larger scale, interceding for regions marred by conflict and strife.
Let’s Pray
Our Father, we come before You, acknowledging Christ as our peace. Today, grant us the grace to actively pursue peace in our relationships and to be conduits of the peace that surpasses understanding.
In the precious and mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
My prayer for you today: I pray that the peace of Christ, which transcends all understanding, guards your heart and mind in every situation. May you be an agent of reconciliation and a bearer of the divine peace that unites and heals.
