Peace

The world gives peace only when there is no fear. When there is no fear, a person is at peace. However, this verse implies the opposite. Followers of Christ are at peace, so they need not be afraid. Peace in Christ does not mean the absence of frightening things or trouble, but peace in it.

Jesus gives his followers his peace. This is the death-defying peace of the Divine Son of God who sweat drops of blood a few hours later at the prospect of his sacrifice on the cross. The peace that asked for that cup to pass, but desired the will of the Father over being spared from suffering. The peace of the One who was the Man of Sorrows, who was acquainted with sorrow, who bore our iniquity and griefs. The peace of the One who endured the cross because he had set the joy before him. The peace of the Son with the Father.

This is no ordinary peace. It trusts the will of the Father, even unto death. It focuses on the joy of God’s promise, not the situation. Even more than all of that, it is peace with the Father. This peace of a heart is possible only for one no longer under condemnation, but under God’s banner of love as his child.

This moves my heart to pray for the ability to believe and practice this peace. May I be able to say whole-heartedly with the Psalmist:

“I have set the Lord always before me;

because he is at my right hand,

I shall not be shaken.

Therefore my heart is glad,

and my whole being rejoices;

my flesh also dwells secure.

For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,

or let your holy one see corruption.

You make known to me the path of life;

in your presence there is fullness of joy;

at your right hand are pleasures

forevermore.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭16:8-11‬ ‭