Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. (Colossians 3:15) (NIV)
Through the seasons, I sat on the veranda in Africa and admired the lake’s stability. Summer grassfires ravaged the land, only to run into the shoreline and lie down simpering. In winter, gusty blasts moaned and dug, and, for all their efforts, merely scratched at the surface. The lake was immovable.
The lake was an elegant diamond necklace on the throat of bare land. As I stared into its twilight reflection, it whispered to my soul.
“I’m not troubled by events around me. I don’t wander, or follow trends. My only occupation, indeed my truest joy, is to mirror the light from above.”
Then the lake went silent. From its surface shown a periwinkle sky of peace.
Peace is not the absence of trouble. It’s the sure knowledge that I’m reflecting the light of Jesus in every circumstance. Even in the midst of turmoil, I’m meant to enjoy voluminous peace. Peace is my born-again birthright. To peace I’m called, and by peace I’m ruled.
Peace is a simple governor. While I’m obedient to Christ, peace comes. When I’m disobedient, it leaves. This rule, and therefore peace itself, transcends every circumstance, pleasant or painful. Obedience, and not my situation, makes for true peace.
One cannot live near a lake without learning something of the ways of peace. What I learned was that a deep and liquid stillness flows over those who’s sole ambition is to reflect the light of Jesus.
Prayer: Jehovah Shalom (The Lord Our Peace), rule in my heart.