Peace in the time of the virus

Peace

Dolores said to me, "It was like the Lord was right there with us." This is the peace that passes understanding. It is also the very simple thing of hearing the promises of Jesus, "I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20)

But how many in the world do not understand this peace? How many times have we, ourselves, looked around frantically wondering and worrying about what is coming? It is our nature to take our eyes off of the constant and reassuring care that comes from God; and instead chase after other solutions. And then we become frantic. But in the middle of the turmoil and confusion of life Jesus our Savior and Friend is always there. He gives assurance, reassurance and peace.

This assurance and reassurance is uncommon in this world. It is unlike anything else, and different from any other experience. In fact, Jesus Himself told us this:
"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." (John 14:27)

How can He give such peace? Well, He is the One who has won the victory. Think through all the troubles you have ever lived through. Is there even a one of them that Jesus is not able to deal with? Jesus said, "In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart, I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)

Think through the temptations you have faced. Again, with every single one of them Jesus has the strength to conquer. "We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin."
Is there suffering? Jesus is the One who has endured all things for your sake.
Even death! "Christ is risen!" " He is risen indeed!"

That is why the Christian can have peace, no matter what. Because Jesus is living "no matter what," and He is with us "no matter what," and He gives promises that are and will be true "no matter what." If we were to try to attain peace through calming ourselves, through finding security for our soul and safety for our lives, or through all the different kinds of meditation practiced all over the world; we still would not find the extraordinary peace that is there in Jesus.

This peace is not a thing we do. It is a gift that comes from outside ourselves. It comes to us through the work and the words of God. It is established and founded in the cross of Jesus -- so it is a peace that holds even in the most extreme situation. It is confirmed in the opening of the tomb and Easter morning rising of Jesus -- so it cannot be undone as long as He lives. And it is given in the words and promises of Jesus -- so it is peace that reaches as deep into the soul as the Word of God reaches and touches.

That is what Dolores was talking about. The peace and the strength of the Christian come to the Christian very simply through Jesus' words. Jesus Himself, and Jesus through the working of the Holy Spirit, whispers His promises deep down within our soul. And again, that is exactly what Jesus promised. "I have said these things to you that in Me you may have peace." (John 16:33)

Lord Jesus, thank You for the promises You give. They are my strength, and my peace. Because You have promised to be with me always. You have promised never to leave me or forsake me. And You have promised that whoever believes in You will live even if he dies. I ask You to speak Your promises deep within my soul as often as I am worried or fearful; that I may grow in knowing Your peace. Amen.

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