We read in Is. 9.6 about the Prince of Peace. One of Paul’s letters was written to encourage people living in a time of confusion, threat and discouragement. (Sound familiar? Yeah, I thought so.)
Paul’s answer to the struggles of the people of Colossae was this: Jesus brings peace, set your mind on him.
In that letter, in the first chapter, there is what we think is an early song. It is found in verses 15-20. The last two verses, what feels like the third stanza to me if I think of it as a song, are these wonderful words:
“For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.” (Colossians 1:19-20 ESV)
Later, the apostle goes on to help us see what to do:
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” (Colossians 3:2 ESV) In context, the previous verse reminds of that Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father (Cf. Mark 16:19) advocating for us (Cf. Isaiah 59:16, Romans 8:34).
So, as we reflect on the already – not yet, let us set our minds – through the disciplines – on Jesus, the bringer of peace, the Prince of Peace.
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