JULY 28 “INTIMACY IN PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE IN THE CHURCH”

Peace is defined in the dictionary to be “a state of mutual harmony between people or groups, especially in personal relations.” As true as this is, and given what we see around us, it does not mean that the existence of peace in a relationship will always be without conflict, disagreement or difference in opinion. However, peacefully coexisting or living together in peace is still possible even in the face of fundamental disagreements.

This is the reason why Paul said to the Colossians in 3:15, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.” The heart in which the peace of God rules cannot harbor evil. Such a heart continually seeks peace with everyone and pursues it. In an intimate relationship, peace is sure to exist, otherwise that closeness needed for intimacy will not be there.

Paul says in Romans 12:18, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” This is an individual responsibility that cannot be shifted to anyone else. Imagine if every Christian heeds this advice, the church will be a good example to the world and the world will be a better place to live.

To peacefully coexist in the church, we must imbibe some characteristics of peace as listed in Colossians 3:12-14 – “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.”

PRAYER: Father, please help me to make peace with anyone I am not at peace with and make me an embodiment of peace in Your Church in Jesus’ name, Amen.