A Timeless Peace
In 2008, I wrote:
I am alone, facing an awe-inspiring peak in the vastness of Alaska. The only sound I hear is . . . nothing. A bald eagle soars above me, unaware of my admiring stare. I have come to this place to sit in the presence of my God, the God who made these heavens and this earth, the God of this majestic, untouched land . . . I live in Alaska and view those incredible mountain peaks every day. But instead of peace and quiet I most often find myself facing the prospect of another week of homeschooling, mission commitments, chapel commitments, basketball and hockey practice, the making of breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Where would I ever find peace in this not-so-quiet world?
Maybe I’ve come to a better understanding in the last 14 years. And though those majestic mountain peaks and blankets of snow were able to bring a temporary feeling of calm, real peace is only ever found in Jesus.
At His birth, the angels proclaimed a peace for the world that at long last had arrived - thank you, Lord. But their annunciation of peace was not just for Christmas - it is a declaration that spans the entirety of time, place and circumstance. He IS our peace. He is peace for today. He is peace for tomorrow.
In our longing for it, Jesus reminds us that peace is difficult to hold in lives that are breakneck busy, deafeningly loud, and anxiety tyrannized.
Jesus wishes to generously bestow His perfect peace upon us, but it is a gift we must be present to receive.
He invites us to become quiet and still, unhurried, prayerful.
In open minds, we listen.
In open hearts, we discern.
In open hands, we accept.
Don’t allow peace to elude you in 2023.
Receive His generous gift.
“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.”
John 14:27 NIV
On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.
Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”
John 20:19-21 NIV