Thoughts for the Day

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. You heard me say to you, “I am going away, and I am coming to you.” If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you this before it occurs, so that when it does occur, you may believe. I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me; but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us be on our way.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

What is 'Peace'? It could mean many things to many people:

• External quietness - the toddler stops banging the bricks, or the fireworks stop their noise.
• Stillness of the mind - we stop worrying.
• Absence of conflict - the cessation of war, or when an argument ceases.
• ...........? (add your own suggestion!)

What, then is God's 'Peace'? Firstly, we cannot work to achieve God's peace. It is rather a gift that we receive by faith. Philippians 4.7 says 'the Peace of God surpasses all understanding'. We need to turn to God when all around us or within us is noisy, in prayer. We should tell him how we feel and what is on our mind and put ourselves in His hands as it were.

Then, when all our senses and thoughts scream that we should be upset, or frustrated, or aggravated, or angry we shall find God's peace will fill our hearts and minds. Despite all earthly reasoning Jesus tells his disciples just before he goes to his death, they are to be at peace. We too can be at peace!

Lord Jesus Christ,
You offered Your disciples peace
just before Your death on a cross,
and through faith they received that peace
so that they were able to cope with
all that the world could do to them.
We ask that Your peace will fill
our hearts and minds this day,
so that we too can fulfill Your will
this day.
Amen.