The Good News of Peace

The greatest news the world could ever receive. Jesus Christ made a way for everyone to be a part of the Church body with His redeeming work on the cross. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can have peace with everyone who claims His name.

Let’s begin with a simple prayer. I encourage you to make it your prayer as we go through today’s devotion.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the unity of Your church. Help me to continue to love my church body and treat everyone with the same peace given unto me. Amen.

Ephesians 2:14-18 (NLT)
14 For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall of hostility that separated us. 15 He did this by ending the system of law with its commandments and regulations. He made peace between Jews and Gentiles by creating in himself one new people from the two groups. 16Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by means of his death on the cross, and our hostility toward each other was put to death.

17 He brought this Good News of peace to you Gentiles who were far away from him, and peace to the Jews who were near. 18 Now all of us can come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us.”

When I think of the church body, I sometimes think of the classic sitcom “Full House.” I imagine a place where all are welcome to sit on the couch, laugh to tears, join in meals, crash cookouts, and borrow bikes. But I see something a bit deeper…the ability to walk in peace and to share it among each other. How do you view the church body? Do you seek peace and share it with others? Do you put hostility to death?

What a gift to know we have been created a “new people” through redemption. We have already been reconciled to God, which in turn means we are reconciled to each other. We are one body, united with many different parts. Through Christ, we are family. We all have the same Holy Spirit living in us. Our church is our holy life-line, and we can share that peace openly.

What would it take for you to view the church body from this perspective, to see brothers and sisters? (Even when the “Kimmy Gibblers” drop by unannounced checking the fridge for a snack.)

After reflecting on these questions, go to God in prayer. Spend as much time with Him as you need. You can use the following prompts to help you.

Ask the Lord to remind you of the unity you have the privilege to live in.

Ask God to help you to see His people as your people.

I encourage you to ask God to open your eyes, to see the unity we have the privilege of sharing when we claim His name. Be Blessed!