Paul told the Ephesians that when we regularly pass the peace we practice God's call to make every effort to maintain the bond of peace.
After Jesus' resurrection He appeared to the disciples with a blessing and a call "Peace be with you. I am sending you."
This call extends to all followers of Christ. And it's a blessing in it's purest form because when you pass the peace of Christ you are sharing Him- blessing another and receiving a blessing as God's conduit of peace- in every interaction.
A dear friend called me to share a God story this morning about a man redeemed and joyfully restored to Jesus in prison. She was so joyful that she had to share- she "passed the peace" and in so doing I too was blessed.
Passing the peace of Christ takes different forms:
1- Encouragement
2- Calling to check on someone
3- Listening and empathizing
4- Standing in the gap in prayer
5- Forgiving
6- Smiling at someone
7- Sharing the Gospel
8- Sharing a testimony
9- Loving like Jesus
10- Serving another (loving like Jesus)
Every morning I allow Holy Spirit to fill me with His peace (His Presence) by praying Colossians 3:12-14 and inviting Holy Spirit to prepare me for the day through Galatians 5:18 and 22-23.
Throughout the day if I face challenges that attempt to steal my peace I ask Holy Spirit to fill me up again.
Passing peace does not bely a passive action. To be at peace means I trust You God and I am ready to go where You call me.
Be ready Saints- God is calling each of us!
Father, we are Your chosen people, holy and dearly loved. Help us Lord as we clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Strength us to bear with others and forgive as You have forgiven us. Help us to put on love Lord which binds all of these things together in perfect unity. Lord, Your Word instructs us to walk by Your Spirit. Holy Spirit, You are welcome here. Fill us to overflowing so that our lives will be a harvest of Your fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. May all that we do bring You glory, honor and praise.
In the strong and mighty Name of Jesus Christ, AMEN