Colossians 3:15

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. (NIV)

Paul is discussing daily living in a Christian community. Peace within that community seems to be an issue. And so he says to the Colossians, "Let God's peace rule in your hearts." Let the peace, harmony, and realization that you are in right relationship that comes from being in Christ determine your paths...direct your decision...be the rule under which you live! Let that peace guide your heart--your desires, your passions, your purposes and your endeavors--every step of the way!

As members of one body--one family in Christ, one community in this World (perceived as acting and thinking as one, by the World)--we are called (invited to) partake in this peace. We are called to live in such a way that all can see we are no longer under condemnation. We are also called or named by God as His people--even as ambassadors in this World.

"And be thankful" --thankful here is eucharistos... When I first saw that I thought..."Um... the eucharist is another name for Communion...what does this word really mean in Greek?" Answer:

1) mindful of favours, grateful, thankful
2) pleasing, agreeable
3) acceptable to others, winning, liberal, beneficent

The translation of the verb that precedes it seems somewhat faulty to me. It doesn't mean "be," it means "become" or "be made." In other words, God is the one active here...He is involved in moving us into a state of "thankfulness"--or perhaps more literally, He is the one who is making us acceptable--to Himself.

So, when I read this verse, I hear this challenge. Allow God's plans to guide your life. Walk in the ways He wants you to go. Allow Him to lead, and your life will be acceptable to him, and to others--you will be an altogether "winning" personality. People will be able to see the Peace of God in your life!