Thankful for Peace (the Umpire)

Colossians 3:15
And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ's] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].

Have you ever been to a sporting event?  It doesn't really matter which event, because no matter what event you attended there is always a referee, umpire, or field judge...etc.  But really why are they there?  No game can start and end without one.  They are there to judge the game, settle disputes, and make sure that the rules of the game are adhered to.   Just think without them, who would determine whether a pitch was a strike or a ball?  Who'd determine whether a runner was safe or out?  We would?  The people in the stands or bleachers?  We are (no matter how close you are sitting) to far to see the smallest details to why the call was what it was.    SO as a former ball player...I'm thankful for the umpires.

But what about PEACE?   Umpires and peace share the desire to promote harmony in the major game.  There will be conflicts because WE are invovled, but Paul suggested that we allow the PEACE of CHRIST rule in our hearts (settling our disputes; often those regarding our flesh against GOD's will) that we may continue to live harmoniously as GOD desires His children to live.   Nobody comes to games to watch the umpires, they don't have major endorsement deals, or trading cards you probably can't even name 2 professional umps/refs/field judges....but without them games wouldn't be enjoyable.
  

The bottom line is that Paul told us the reason for quarrels and misunderstandings (James 4:1) is because WE want our way, but let's THANK GOD that HIS WAYS are not OUR WAYS, He's JUST and HE's perfect, so let's look to HIM and be THANKFUL for HIS PEACE, that is able to comfort us no matter what HIS call is regarding the the game of LIFE as it relates to us.  NOW LET US FOLLOW HIS INSTRUCTIONS AND FOCUS ON LIVING (BEING) PEACEABLY with ONE ANOTHER.  LGLP