Message in a battle
War imagery can seem conflicting to peace-minded Christians in the traditional hymn, "Onward Christian Soldier." Even if we who love Christ are at peace, there is an immediate world around us that is not peaceful. The imagery of a message in a bottle is timeless, even somewhat romantic. Our message in a battle, which is the sermon title this week, speaks to how peace can fill the minds of others. Opinions are great. Differences add necessary sparks of debate and communal wisdom. When peace is challenged or is all out ignored however, we should prepare and be present to the messages around us that are in battle.
In select verses in Colossians 3 and 4, which is our scripture this week, Paul helps us speak to Christ's message of love being not only heard, but also shared not with more rage but quiet, guiding revelation.