From the 19th to the 21st century, perhaps through out the history of mankind, peace is the most sought after virtue yet the most elusive. Many have tried to define peace but the more they try, the more nebulous it becomes. Many have tried to find peace but the closer they (think)they get, the farthest they are actually away from truth. Many muse they will acquire it by amassing riches but the more they amass, the more they come to a realization that they deepen their woes.
Two best painters in class were asked to do a painting depicting peace. The first painter painted a depiction of clear blue sky with bright light with well nourished vegetation and bright flowers but this seemed so superficial and unrealistic.
The second painter painted a depiction of thunder and lightening and overflowing volumes of water on a rocky patch. But in the midst of all this chaos was a bird hiding in between two rocks.
Friend! you see, peace is not the absence of trouble, strife, chaos or war but rather a disposition of rest and joy in the midst of such chaos or trouble. Friend, I promise you that strife, or trouble may come your way this 2018 but I pray beyond all others you may have rest in the midst of such Joy.
My best exemplification of the virtue of peace is the story found in Matthew 8: 27; the boat in which Jesus and His desciples were was hit with a storm to the brink of a wreck. While the disciples were shouting and screaming for thief lives, Jesus was fast asleep until they woke Him up. He got up and rebuked the storm and it was quite.
They didn’t know that they were traveling with the Prince of Peace.
Beloved, I want you to know that if you need peace in your life this 2018, then Jesus is who you need. Invite Him into your life and experience His peace.
““Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Your heart must not be troubled or fearful.”
John 14:27 HCSB
http://bible.com/72/jhn.14.27.hcsb