What do football, soccer, basketball, tennis, and baseball have in common? They all involve some sort of referees whose sole purpose is to enforce the rules of the game. These rule-keepers play a critical role. Authority has been given to them to ensure the game is fairly played and can proceed without confusion or disruption.

In Colossians 3:15, describes how followers of Jesus should live: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” What does it mean to let the “peace of Christ” rule? In a sporting event, the person with the most authority is given the responsibility to enforce the rules of the game. In the Christian life, Jesus has that authority. When all of our individual opinions and desires are subjected to Him, He brings us together allowing peace to rule over us. When His peace rules, we will “bear with each other,” “forgive one another,” and will “put on love” (vv. 13–14).

As members of one body, we are to be mindful of and thankful for the rules we have been given by God. They help us relate to one another in a spirit of thanksgiving (v. 15). Paul explains how this happens through teaching and worship: “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts” (v.16). Notice how a spirit of thankfulness and gratitude is woven through these verses. We are told to sing to God “with gratitude in your hearts” (v. 16). Paul says that “whatever [we] do, whether in word or deed,” when done in Jesus’ name, demonstrates our thankfulness to God (v. 17).

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