Peace that lasts...

“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.”Jn 14:27

Ever pondered the facial expressions when Jesus delivered the news to the disciples about His upcoming departure? “I’m leaving, but don’t worry. I’ll send a replacement…” 

The disciples must have been perplexed, and unsure about this news. This is NOT what they signed up for. But, maybe Jesus was leaving to get reinforcements to help Him set up His kingdom on earth. There’s no way they could have understood what this meant, or what was to come. Did they wonder if they’d ever see Him again?

I wonder if Jesus was both saddened by their lack of faith, amused by their human eagerness (which could not do anything apart from Him), and maybe even thinking, “Oh, my little sheep, you will soon see and believe and understand…” 

Surely He powerfully spoke into their deepest parts a truth which they wouldn’t grasp until much later.  

“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.”

I wonder how long it’ll be before I grasp this truth myself… that this peace isn’t a whim, a short-term feeling, or even something to be attained. It’s a promise meant to be believed, repeated throughout Scripture, throughout centuries – one I’m quick to forget.

So, in this moment, I choose to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:16

Abba God, You are the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep. I ask in His name that You equip my sisters (and myself) with everything good for doing your will, that You give them peace at all times and in every way, and that You work in us what is pleasing to You, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. (Hebrews 13:20-21, 2 Thessalonians 3:16)

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