REAL AND LASTING PEACE...

August 31         Real and Lasting Peace   Colossians 3:15

***Due to the rise in COVID19 related illnesses, we are strongly encouraging the use of Masks, within the sanctuary, and to continue to observe “Social Distancing.”  Together, with a faithful reliance on God, we will overcome this present challenge!!***

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)

When Paul wrote these words, the only peace that the people were familiar with, was the peace that came through conquest, by Caesar and the Roman Empire and its armies.  So, here comes this fellow named Paul, and he is talking about the “Peace of Christ,” and this Peace should “rule in your hearts.”  Think about it… Caesar brought a perceived Peace through “Might” and “Conquest,” yet, this Christ, that Paul speaks of, brings Peace that is described as “Mercy and Humility and Love and seems to be about a personal experience, not a conquering force and domination.  As I contemplate the environment of Paul’s day, I see how these folks would have difficulty with this “Peace” thing.  We have a natural tendency to attempt to “make Peace” in our lives by being more assertive and attaining more power and leverage.  Notice, that the Followers of Jesus were different!  They recognized that the only true and lasting way to bring “Peace,” is through “Peace!”  I believe that this lesson is vital and critical in our, present day, survival!  Evil, Chaos, and Total Insanity has taken hold of our world and, it appears that the goal is to disrupt and to destroy any “Peace” that we might enjoy!  Paul said, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”  Model your life after Jesus and allow Him to “Rule” in your heart and be Grateful for His Blessings, Guidance and His Real and Lasting PEACE, regardless of the worldly circumstances!  Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!