Peace
What comes to your mind when you hear the word Peace? It might be the peace sign or the words of a song ( “peace on earth, goodwill to men” ) or you remember the quiet rare end of an evening when the kids are “asleep”. You may recall the early morning with the sun just comes up and you are sipping that first cup of coffee……….. no matter what images or songs or memories we recall, we know the peace on earth is only temporary. But, God wants us to have a peaceful mind and heart more than just for a few moments.
Look at John 14:17, “ 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.” Jesus has left all believers with this promise of peace. Especially, this time of year that would be a wonderful gift and beyond anything this world can provide.
But in today’s world, how can our hearts and minds not be anxious and afraid by the insane violence? Like when someone drives a vehicle into an innocent group enjoying the day at a Christmas parade. Or the recurring nightmare of an automatic gun being used by adults and children in almost every venue where people go to play, to shop, to listen to music,or get an education. The headlines are sickening, but we only have to open out history books or read our holy Word and read of the violence in every generation. Still, it can be overwhelming when it streams across our TV’s, pops up on the screens of our phones and tablets anytime of the day and night…….and as it greets us almost every morning as we get the kids ready for school and pray for their safety.
What do we do with this fear and anxiety that can make us want to put our loved ones in a “ bubble of protection” or seek a retreat away from the basic social interaction and regular activities we enjoy? Certainly this pandemic virus has added to this desire and ability for isolation. We have Amazon, Walmart, Uber eats and almost every service that has changed their business to accommodate us by delivery to our homes or having us pick up goods in front of their stores. I don’t believe God intended for us to live in isolation and fear. There are so,so many scriptures that counter that way of life……. like Isaiah 40:10, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” OR Deuteronomy 31:6, “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” What is the root cause of all this chaos that disturbs the peace God wants for us? We will ask that question and continue next week.
A few songs that bring the hope of peace;