May 2025

Before his betrayal and crucifixion, Jesus told his disciples about the peace he would leave with them. It would not be as the world gives. (John 14:27)

The peace the world gives is temporal and conditional. There is peace if we go along with the crowd and comply. But it is false peace, temporal and circumstantial, external.

The peace of God is different and deeper. It grounds us and guides us through chaos and calm.

Jesus takes us to the true Source of peace, the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit acting as our guide and advocate and emboldening us to not only receive peace but to actually become peace makers. In this season after Easter, it is easy to slip back into patterns that dismiss the power of resurrection and the gift of peace Christ provides. It’s easy to make space for chaos and despair.

“But the need of my heart is for room for Peace: Peace of mind that inspires singleness of purpose; Peace of heart that quiets all fears and uproots all panic; Peace of spirit that filters through all confusions and robs them of their power. These I see NOW. I know that here in this quietness my life can be infused with Peace. Therefore, before God, I seek the enlargement of my heart at this moment, that there may be room for Peace,” (Howard Thurman).

Jesus gives us the peace that surpasses understanding. It’s not the peace of the world. It’s the peace that provides focus, tranquility, discernment, and trust in the one who tends to our life.

May our hearts and homes make space and be brave messengers for this peace.

Tom

Jesus says,

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.