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

~ Colossians 3:15 ~

During my time in the Air Force around the year 2000, I had the wonderful opportunity to work as a high-ropes instructor for youth in Cheyenne, Wyoming. The high ropes courses were built to challenge people beyond their comfort zones — encouraging them to trust their harnesses, stay level, and keep moving with confidence.

One day, I decided to take my son Jeremiah to one of the courses. We thought it would be a wonderful father-son adventure — a fun activity we could enjoy together. But as soon as he stepped onto the line, everything suddenly shifted. Fear overwhelmed him. Anxiety took hold of his mind, and before we knew it, he froze in place. He was unable to move forward or backward. His body became tense, and panic set in. We immediately paused everything to help him down and bring him back to a safe, steady ground.

That image has stayed with me: my son hanging in midair, holding onto fear rather than faith, hesitant to move. It’s such a powerful reminder that life’s challenging moments can unsettle even the bravest among us – especially when peace is replaced by panic. Panic, which has plagued many.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve been exploring the concept of peace on the move through planes, trains, and automobiles with great delight. Every story we've shared has beautifully shown that peace isn't about avoiding turbulence, chaos, or breakdowns; quite the opposite. On the plane, peace meant embodying patience during the process — boarding when called, and resisting the urge to race ahead. On the train, peace meant keeping steady on track — embracing rhythm, direction, and trusting in God’s perfect timing. In the automobile, peace meant navigating frustrations — when plans go awry, when others mistreat us, or when our hearts feel like reacting instead of resting. Now, as we arrive at the final stop on this journey, remember this simple truth: Peace isn’t about the road beneath your feet — it’s about the strength and love within your heart.

The Apostle Paul wrote about this kind of peace while imprisoned in Rome — not from comfort, but from confinement. In Philippians 4:7, he said, And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. The word “guard” here has a military connotation. It’s the image of standing firm, fortified, unshaken by external attacks. Paul wasn’t just surviving – he was standing. Even in chains, he walked in peace and spread it everywhere he went.

That’s what the Shoes of Peace do for us. They anchor us when life gets shaky. They keep us steady on the ropes course of life — when fear, anxiety, and panic threaten to take over. They allow us to keep climbing, trusting that God’s harness — Jesus’ teachings and commands, along with His Spirit that follows — will never fail. Never!

Learning everything in this Shoes series, along with this year’s theme, God’s Armor is valuable, but what's really important is putting it into practice in your everyday life. Here's how you can stay strong: First, let peace guide you—don't let fear take control. Trust in Christ’s peace to lead your decisions. Remember, you’re never alone—"As members of one body, you were called to peace.” Peace unites us and makes us stronger together. And most importantly, be thankful—gratitude keeps you grounded. It’s much harder to panic when you’re focusing on praise.

When we wear the Shoes of Peace, we’re not just standing still — we’re walking with meaning, purpose, and intent. Every step we take is on a mission. We rise higher in faith, embracing growth. Whether you’re soaring in a plane at 30,000 feet, hearing the train’s rhythmic clatter, driving along a bumpy road, or hanging between fear and faith on a rope — keep this in mind: Peace is your counterbalance. Christ is your safety harness. And on this journey, being prepared becomes a way of living it. 

So, let Christ’s peace fill your heart — stand firm, rooted in His grace, ready for whatever comes next. 

Therefore, stay strong, shine bright, and suit up!

Pastor Drake