"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." (Colossians 3:15 NIV)
In baseball, the umpire is the referee of the game and the ultimate authority on the field. The umpire makes decisions like whether a pitch is a strike or a ball, or whether a player is safe or out. If there is ever a disagreement between the teams about a play, the umpire makes the final ruling.
The Greek word for rule used in Colossians 3:15 means to make a call as an umpire. This verse tells us that God wants the peace of Christ to be the umpire in our hearts and lives.
When life throws you a curve ball or you are facing a difficult situation, who calls the shots? Is it the peace that comes through Jesus or is it the voice of the world that brings worry, fear, and anxiety?
Jesus wants his peace to get the final say in how our hearts respond to every life circumstance.
As we reflect on peace this Christmas, what is one area in your life where you need Jesus’ peace to be the umpire in your life?