It is the time of year many church decision-making bodies will be meeting to gear up for the fall, or (preferably) to touch base on and confirm what has been worked out previously. Typically decisions are made concerning near-future activities and projects in accordance with a broader or longer-range plan or vision. It is generally considered advisable that all of this be as concrete as possible, and therefore, also, measurable.
Fine and good. But for Christian groups and organizations there is something more fundamental that comes before any of that, according to Paul in Colossians 3, at least the way I read it. And this will affect not only the spirit in which such decisions are made, but may well also affect outcomes. It is the priority of peace among Christians.
In reading verses 13-17 of Colossians 3, I see a progression from making sure there is peace and unity, and then, and only then, is there any talk of action, which is first making sure Christ’s teaching is embedded in all hearts, through mutual sharing and worship, and, for that matter, doing everything, in action or word, in the name of the Lord Jesus. Each part: the emphasis on peace (verse 14), worshipful community (15), and, summarily, doing all in the name of Jesus (verse 17), has thanksgiving as an integral part of it.
In the midst of visioning and action plans and setting measurable goals, we might want to consider peace as fundamental to it all. That’s the way I read it, anyway. Is that too conservative; does it detract from the great commission; does it keep us from being bold? No, the more I think about this, and reflect on some past hard experience, I think, ultimately, it makes for greater possibilities. A people united can do anything.