The Gift of Jesus’ Peace
John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.”
Story: Jesus speaks so perfectly here to His disciples – and to us. He knows and understands their confusion and trouble as Jesus must leave them after three years together. What Jesus uniquely gives in His peace is exactly what is needed for His disciples. What caught my eye in this reading is that the final two commands imply the disciples (and us too) have a choice. Jesus’ peace is sufficiently given so that we do not need to be troubled or fearful. But they (and us) must receive and use this gift of peace.
I write this after sending my wife and oldest daughter off for a trip. I won’t be with them for all that they enjoy … or face. I won’t have their help for what takes place at home. I can sit here and stew in worry, going over all sorts of possible situations. Doing so would fill my heart with trouble and fear. Or I can chose to obey Jesus’ words here, focusing on who He is and the peace He gives. I don’t know the future, but I know the One who does – and He has promised me His peace, His presence, His love!
My Prayer Response: Jesus, I trust Your peace. It is what I need and must hold onto. When I start to worry, be anxious or troubled, please remind me to look to You. To trust You. and to rest in Your gift of peace. You don’t promise me, ‘It will all be okay.’ No, You promise me Your peace, and that is enough.
May you receive and use Jesus’ gift of peace today!