“While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.’ ” (Luke 24:36)
“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, in John 14:27)
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (Jesus, in John 16:33)
The word peace occurs 247 times in the Bible. My favorite verses on the subject are the ones quoted above, when Jesus speaks to his disciples after His death, burial and resurrection. The men and women to whom he appears are in a panic: shocked, confused, despondent. Sudden circumstances have rendered them afraid and uncertain. Sound familiar? No, the markets had not fallen 25% that week. Home values had not eroded. But far worse, their beloved teacher and Lord had been tortured, executed and buried. The One in whom they had placed their trust was gone, or so it seemed. Into their fear and doubt, Jesus arrives with four power-packed words: “Peace be with you.” He knows exactly what they need, and He delivers it. He is the same peace-giving Messiah today. He remains loving and faithful to bring us peace in the midst of the current uncertainty, if only we will resist the temptation to panic, and place our trust in His care for us.
Heavenly Father, God of peace, thank you that the Prince of Peace died in our stead to secure our salvation and place in heaven, and to secure the peace in our hearts and minds that we may enjoy in this present age as we trust in Your goodness. Amen.
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