As we approach the solemn memorial of Passover, we prepare to share the peace offering with the King of Peace, reflecting on the inestimable cost that demands our absolute faith in action. This memorial, commanded to be kept annually, serves as a reminder of the covenant made at baptism to live as Christ lives, buried with Him in the waters of baptism. Our focus must remain on the peace offering, a meal shared in unity with the Father, the Son, and one another, as we strive to embody the humility and service Christ exemplified. In Genesis 14, we see Melchizedek, the King of Salem, the King of Peace, refreshing Abram with bread and wine after battle, a preincarnate manifestation of the Son of God. This meal, shared as a priest of God Most High, blessed Abram and acknowledged God's deliverance of enemies into his hand. It stands as a type of the memorial we keep at Passover, a peace meal that signifies our transition from relying on personal strength to embracing the peace only Christ can provide. Abraham's journey reflects our own as friends of the King of Peace. From his initial reliance on physical gifts to rescue Lot, to the moment of sharing the peace meal with Melchizedek, we see a shift toward faith and dedication to God's way. Later, in Genesis 18, Abraham humbly serves the King of Peace and others, providing water for washing feet and a meal with outgoing concern, mirroring the example Christ set for His disciples on the night of Passover. Abraham no longer takes matters into his own hands but lays everything before the King of Peace, trusting in His righteousness to save. The ultimate expression of faith as a friend of the King of Peace is seen in Genesis 22, where Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac demonstrates his unyielding commitment to follow God's commands, knowing it will work for good. This act underscores the depth of devotion required as we participate in the Passover peace meal, focusing on unity within the body of Christ, humbly serving one another without partiality as Christ commanded. As we draw near to this memorial, we must examine ourselves, ensuring we do not partake in the peace offering with the King of Peace in an unworthy manner. The warning in Proverbs 7 reminds us that participating in this offering while following a faithless, self-serving path leads to peril. Instead, we are called to live as Christ lives, with outgoing concern for every member of the body of Christ, striving for unity as His friends and heirs according to the promise of the King of Peace.

Christ is acknowledged as King of Salem, meaning King of Peace, revealing a vital quality of His leadership. Under His reign, righteousness and peace will spread over all the earth, marking a profound transformation. As we prepare for the days ahead, let us hold fast to our calling to serve alongside our King, embracing the peace He brings to all nations in the soon-coming age.