The Umpire of Peace

May 30, 2022

DAILY READING

Philippians 1:7 – And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Colossians 3:15 – “. . . and let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also you are called in one body; and be ye thankful.”

FIELD NOTES

Baseball season is two months old! While this “American pastime” has its hall-of-fame players and today’s stars, the umpire remains a key participant in this game. Why?

The umpire decides if the pitch is a ball, strike, foul, or hit. The umpire rules if the hitter strikes out or walks and if a runner is safe or out. The “ump” can also eject a player, manager, or coach from a game. The umpire rules the game.

In Philippians, Paul wants us to examine the peace of God guarding our hearts (Philippians 4:7). In Colossians, Paul says peace is to rule in your hearts. The word “rule” means “umpire.”

Yes, peace is an umpire. If we have peace, this umpire rules that our life is in fair territory under the guidance of Christ’s Holy Spirit. If we lack peace, peace’s ruling is that we are in foul territory.

When I am “out of sorts” and very anxious, I find it helpful to examine my heart and spirit. My lack of peace (the umpire) is God’s signal for me to seek God’s guidance in the situation. A peace that passes all understanding emerges in my spirit again when I do this.

SUGGESTIONS FOR THE FIELD

Examine yourself with the following questions:

• Am I at peace with myself?
• Am I at peace with others?
• Am I at peace with God?

If you are not at peace with God, ask for God’s guidance to heal the situation.

FAMILY FIELD TALK

• Discuss the difference between peace and the absence of open conflict and hostility.
• Discuss how you can let God help you overcome all conflict, including unspoken conflict and hostility.

PRAYER GUIDE

Dear most loving, gracious God, I want peace in my life, this world, and with you. Because I don’t feel right when I lack peace, I ask for your help resolving conflict and restoring peace in all situations. In your gracious name, we ask. Amen.