Hi everyone!
Life can be challenging, but God is always good!
We often hear people say they would like a little “peace and quiet.” I think we can all say a big “amen” to that, especially with all that is taking place in our world right now! Yet, I wanted to take a few moments to encourage you today on this thought of “peace.”
At times, we have wrongly concluded that peace is simply the absence of conflict or contention of any kind, but we forget that Jesus came into a world that was filled with political and moral turmoil. As Jesus walked those dusty roads, followed by his disciples, everywhere he went, benefitted from the peace he brought into the situation. Jesus knew a day would come that He would be taken out of this world, and His mission would be left in the hands of the very men and women around him who struggled with thoughts of fear and uncertainty.
He gave some comforting words to them at the time, and I believe these words still apply to us today. John 14:27 7 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (NIV)
The peace that the world gives is temporary and governed by the events surrounding us, yet the peace the Lord gives is one that comes from our innermost being because of His presence.
Here is a wonderful story that illustrates the kind of peace Jesus wants us to live in:
Two painters were asked to paint a picture illustrating “peace”. The first painted a beautiful evening scene in the foreground of a lake, its surface calm and still. Trees surrounded it; flowing fields stretched away to the distant cattle gently grazing; a little cottage, the setting sun—all spoke of perfect rest and peace. The second painter drew a wild, stormy scene. Heavy black clouds hung overhead; in the centre of the picture, an immense waterfall, vast volumes of water covered with foam. One could almost hear its unceasing roar, yet perhaps the first thing to strike the eye was a small colourful bird, perched in a cleft of a huge rock, completely sheltered from all danger, singing its little heart out. It is the second painter who could describe the peace that passes all understanding, which is the very peace of Jesus! Content and safe in the midst of the “chaos.”
Psalms 62:2 2 The Lord is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will never be shaken. (NIV)
Whatever the storm, we can face it with courage and confidence, knowing Jesus is our ROCK!
Bless you all!
Craig
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