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Letting Christ's Peace Rule
by Jeffrey R. Snell

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Though God's incredible Creation is teeming with richness and intricacy, human nature seems inclined toward the idea that many people can be quickly evaluated and tagged with labels which capture their essence. Even in the Church we can struggle at times with investing in others over ourselves. Not immune to the hurried pace of the world, we often work to make interactions with others as efficient as possible, particularly those we differ with, saving effort but neglecting relationships. Should this approach become habit, ultimately the mind can disengage and we may cease listening all together. How then shall we detect a need in the life of our brother or sister?

Beyond simply eschewing blessings and edification God has orchestrated, this practice divides the Body. We are each susceptible to contentiousness and idly employing popular expressions to attempt to invalidate opposing views, especially in the present politically-charged social climate. I've caught myself forming opinions in this dangerous manner--nearly before the other person has finished a sentence, I have them figured out. For example, we might seek to corrupt credibility during debates over social issues by mentally (or verbally) labeling others as "liberals", "fundamentalists", "extremists", etc. Valid or invalid, terms applied so shallowly sabotage relationship. The lines are quickly drawn and a sort of emotional wildfire widens the rift between the two sides, stifling opportunity for understanding and growth. It's like deciding whether one likes a house after seeing only the poured foundation! God has created human beings with much more depth and value than that. Where is Jesus Christ in our relationships?

Too often, labeling others is justified under the guise of biblical correction. While we certainly are not required to adopt or even affirm another's perspective where unsound, within the Body God does instruct us to "make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification." (Romans 14:19) In this passage, Paul is addressing conflict over the legality of Christians partaking of certain foods and behaviors. The idea seems readily applicable here as well: a goal of every believer in Jesus Christ must be to seek peace with others, even if we differ, and to build them up with our words and actions. Colossians 3:15-16 instructs, "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts" (not emotion or defensiveness) "...let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish...". Peace and the Word both must accompany admonishment.

Habits formed over many years are never easy to change. The present social atmosphere in our culture has made it easy to be careless, oblivious to the heart our words may wound. So let us consider today whether our speech and attitude invite repentance or resentment. To be effective emissaries for Christ, we must reject the destructive patterns of the world which offer only alienation. The Lord has provided Himself as our model in the gospels. Following His path of peace, truth and honoring our brothers will bring us closer to the heart of the Father and to the rest of our holy family.

Questions or comments? Email me at [email protected]

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