Seeds of the Kingdom 19th May 2023 – He is Our Peace

It was after the crucifixion of Jesus. The disciples were in the upper room. The doors were locked for fear of the Jewish authorities. No doubt they were anxiously discussing what to do next. Their Master had gone, and they were left on their own. They may even have been showing signs of panic. Suddenly ‘Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you”’ (John 20:19). Immediately, panic turned to joy. He said it again: “Peace be with You,” and breathed the Holy Spirit upon them. Within seconds they were transformed from a quivering bunch of fearful men into a powerful band of ambassadors for Jesus Christ.

We ourselves may not have known the joy of walking with Jesus in the flesh, and not yet seen Him face to face. We can be very aware of our own vulnerability in difficult situations or times of anxiety, and we all have our own burdens to carry. “Peace be with you.” These words have power to make a major impact on our lives, but it depends on who is speaking them and where they’re coming from.

We are often aware of signs of strain that puts pressure on our peace of mind. Anxiety can lead to stress and takes its toll on our mental or physical wellbeing. Peace may seem a long way off as we struggle through the many issues that confront us. A friend might try to encourage with words like, “don’t worry,” or “everything will be all right.” But the friend has neither power nor authority to change the circumstances which may be causing us deep concern.

When Jesus says, “Peace be with you”, He is speaking on His authority, not only to our minds or emotions, but directly into our spirit. He is speaking not just by His voice, but with His whole presence. ‘For He himself is our peace … and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility’ (Ephesians 2:14). There’s the difference. Jesus is our peace.

If we can turn our eyes away from issues that confront us, and look to Jesus, who has all power, our faith can rise above the circumstances and rest upon Him. He then passes on to us His mantle of peace, which we can wear with confidence and assurance. It’s not by having control over the circumstances that makes the difference, but by having peace in the circumstances, His peace, which is way beyond all our understanding.

 As we invite Jesus into our lives, a transformation takes place. We see the situation from a different perspective, through His eyes, and His presence fills us with confidence and assurance. He is the One who stands with us through the storm. He is the One with all the power and authority. He is our peace.

“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).