Peace

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

John 14:27 KJV

True perfect lasting peace; what longing of the spirit, and treasure of the soul. To be the most desired, the most sought after, and the least experienced thing in life. The basic need in life, next to love. It is the universal desire of all living human creatures that have lived or will live. The quest of nations and governments, people, and races. Wars have been fought and men have given their lives for her, only to find it elusive, out of bounds, unattainable. She is more to be desired than life itself. It crosses all borders and stations. The rich have sought her with money, the poor by the sweat of their brow. Outwardly she may be present in a family, community, church, or nation, yet not be experienced in the heart. Yet if she is planted in the heart, the result will be peace in all areas of life. Elusive, yes, it is not a tangible thing that one can purchase, but a gift to the surrendered heart.

They who reach out to the author and giver of peace, will return with love and joy, for true lasting peace, does not stand alone. True peace of heart, mind, and soul is found in Jesus the author of it. He made it with his death on the cross, and resurrection from the grave. To those who seek him, he offers the true inner peace that no one can take away. It has been in all walks of life; through ghettos, prisons, and death. It has been experienced in young and old, at births and at the end of life. In tragedy, pain, and deepest sorrow. It slips in through the quiet of the night and is seen on the countenance of those who experience her. She is found in desperation, in the darkest battle of the soul, or in the quiet nighttime prayer. True peace can be experienced in trial but lost in outward peace. Children often find her easier than adults.

Our first parents lost it, then God gave it back to them. The prophets prophesied about it, and Jesus fulfilled it. Since that time, the door to obtain it has been open for anyone, anywhere to experience it.

Peace, beloved peace. What humans will not give for peace of mind, yet few seem willing for what it cost. They would often rather fight for it than surrender for it. It is freely given, but only after one releases his right to fight to obtain it. Books have been written about her, it is the theme of the Bible, and the reason for the gospel story. She is not contained in justice but is found in forgiveness. Her true and fullness will be experienced in God’s eternal home of the soul.

And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? And why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.

Luke 24:35-39 KJV