The peace of Jesus

"My peace I give unto you" (John 14:27)

We live in anxious and troubled times. People are worried about global warming, terrorism, and the impact of the current economic climate. Some worry so much that they are overweight that they become anorexic. Others are so worried by life that they “comfort eat” themselves into obesity. Many people are neurotic and distracted. They lack peace. This is understandable because, "There is no peace for the wicked" (Isaiah 57:20 & 21). But Jesus said, "Come unto me all you who labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28). He has promised us peace.

Before he left them, Jesus promised his disciples, “My peace I give to you” (John 1:27). It is his peace that he gives to those who believe. He is our peace, (Ephesians 2:14). Christ gives us peace with God by his blood. He has left us the peace that he displayed in his life. Never was a man more active, busy man than Jesus. But we was never stressed. He withdrew to the desert regions to rest after a period of intensive work. But he was followed by a great crowd of 5,000 men plus women and children. Did he tell them to clear off like a harassed celebrity pursued by the paparazzi? No he calmly took charge of the situation, taught them and provided them with a hearty picnic. That was his peace. He lived with the constant threat of arrest. He knew that his enemies were out to get him. But he was never distracted, irrational or paranoid. He had peace. Once he was asleep on a boat in the midst of a storm. He had to be woken up by his terror stricken disciples. How did he react when he saw his fearful followers and then see the waves filling the boat? Did he start jumping around like Corporal Jones from Dad’s Army saying, “Don’t panic, don’t panic!” No, he calmly stood up and said, “Peace, be still!” (Mark 4:39-40). That was his peace. Jesus gives us peace with God. With him there is peace in the midst of life with all its unexpected turmoil. As we bring our anxieties to God in prayer we are promised that, "the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard you hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7).

"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with you." (2 Thessalonians 3:16).