Applying Peace - Teaching Material

Consider the image of a serene garden, where every flower and plant flourishes together in harmony. This is much like the kind of community we are called to cultivate, as described in Galatians 5:22-23, where peace is a fruit of the Spirit. In a Wesleyan tradition, we believe that the presence of shalom—a deep and abiding peace—can transform not only our individual hearts but also the very fabric of our community.

To apply this peace in our lives means stepping into service, both within and outside our church walls. Imagine volunteering at a local shelter or simply inviting a neighbor for coffee. These acts, while small in the grand scheme, ripple outward, creating bonds of trust and love that embody the joy and gratitude we find in Christ. When we serve, we are not just fulfilling a duty; we are participating in God’s redemptive work, bringing His peace into places of anxiety and division.

Let us reflect on our daily lives. Where can we extend a hand of service? Who in our community needs to feel the touch of hesed—God’s loving-kindness? Each act of service is a step toward spiritual growth, allowing us to align more closely with God’s purpose for our lives. As we lean into these opportunities, we will discover that peace is not merely a state of being but an active pursuit, weaving us into a vibrant tapestry of faith and connection. What a joy it is to be instruments of His peace!