Peace

Peace. It is a word that we can throw around without much thought. But let's take just a moment to think about it. What is peace? Why is it important? Why do we want it, and how to we get it? I think that when we speak about peace in this way, we are thinking about a situation where life is easier. At least, if I am going to be honest with myself, that is how I see it. Peace means that there will not be any strife or trouble or tribulation. Peace means that I can go about my life and not have to worry. Peace means that I will not be bothered by things that will stress me out. And yet, if that is what peace means, then aren't I setting myself up for heart ache? The reality of this world that we live in is that it is not that way. Things will never get to that point for us. And yet, in the midst of all this tumult we can still know peace. It is not hopeless.

One of the names used to describe Jesus in the Scriptures is Prince of Peace. That is what he is. He gives us peace with God. And that is no small matter. Having our sins paid for by his death on the cross, we no longer live life as enemies of God, but we live it as his own dear children. We live it in relationship with our God. We do it knowing that our God loves us and forgives us. That he is active in our lives. That he will never leave us or forsake us, so that no matter what is going on, our God is there. And his forgiveness and presence in our lives is for us peace. After all, if God if for us, who (or what) can be against us?

May you know this peace in Jesus, now and always.

 

Sincerely,

Pastor CJ