“It Passes Understanding”

What is peace? It is defined as “freedom from disturbance.” When we have peace there is good-will, and harmony. We seek places of peace where there is calm, quiet and stillness. Peaceful places often have silence. We are serene when at peace.

What is the opposite of peace? The events occurring in our country today.  Good will is not only missing, it seems there is no where to find it. Discord can be found in many major American cities. Many are upset, shouting and agitated. Silence is absent. So is peace.

We need peace...our nation needs peace.

I found peace this morning on Hosta leaves. A surprise overnight shower refreshed the plants and left evidence of its passing on the large green leaves of the Hosta plants in front of our house. There was nothing to disturb the leaves or the droplets. No wind rustled the leaves. It was calm, quiet and still. Serenity ruled. The peace of nature was powerful and refreshing. But this is peace which does not last. It was a temporary peace.

What is the origin of peace? It is not exaggeration to say America is desperate for peace. Every nation needs peace. But let’s get personal. You and I are in urgent need of peace, even when our nations are peaceful. We each need peace in our hearts and minds. With so much unrest and conflict in our nations it is clear many do not know where peace is found. Where is the place peace begins? There is only one true source of peace-only one source of peace which endures.

Peace is found with Jesus.

These are the words of Jesus about 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) He spoke these words to His troubled disciples.

And His words about peace are for us.

When a world leader speaks about peace it is a longing or a wish. In spite of many words and noble actions no human can truly deliver peace. The peace Jesus gives is real and it never fades away. It actually exists...like the thumbs on our hands. The Bible says a lot about peace...God’s peace. (which is the same as Jesus’) There are two other passages of scripture about peace-from God you should read now. First, there is God’s perfect peace: “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” Isaiah 26:3 Perfect peace cannot be given by any human being.

Peace replaces anxiety. These are anxious days. The next two verses are two of my favorites. The violence, riots and hate these days have my heart troubled, likely yours as well...my wish is for you to find comfort as you read these words-

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 4:6-7 By the way-transcends means “goes beyond understanding.”

The peace of God goes beyond understanding. He will guard our troubled hearts with His peace! Pause and think-God will guard your heart! Why? He loves us! He freely gives His peace. Need peace? Step outside, look up, listen to the everywhere birds. If it is early in the morning find the droplets of dew on the leaves. Then turn your thoughts to God. Give God your troubles. In exchange He gives peace. The droplets of water on the Hosta leaves are gone now, the peace of God is forever. It passes all understanding. Only and infinite God can do this.