If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.
Mother Teresa
The blogger, poojaG, has a weekly feature on, lifesfinewhine, called Six Word Story. Awhile back, her weekly entry read: “It just keeps on getting crazier.”
PoojaG didn’t speculate about the cause of the craziness, but my mind immediately went to the social upheaval caused by COVID-19 and inflamed racial tensions stoked by police brutality against minorities. Later, the divisive presidential election here in the U. S. rounded out the ultimate cray cray trifecta.
However, despite the chaos caused by current events, I submit to you that craziness is NOT the default setting of God’s creation.
As we know from the account in Genesis, the heavens and the earth were once formless and empty and darkness was over the surface of the deep (Genesis 1:3). That sounds chaotic. However, you know the story, God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. “God saw that the light was good, and He separated the light from the darkness.”
At God’s command, chaos turned to calm.
Submission #2: God is the supreme ruler over ALL of time–including ours (Isaiah 46:10b,11b).
Yes, in spite of recent developments, the God of the universe remains on the throne. And that means the cure for crazy is still calm (peace). And the best place to find God’s peace is still with the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).
As the time of His death neared, Jesus knew the events of His betrayal and execution would plunge his disciples into grief and despair, but He also knew their grief would turn to joy after His resurrection (John 16:16-33). Furthermore, the Holy Spirit would come–as promised, after His departure–to guide His followers into all truth. (John 14:16; 25-26)
That same Spirit of God’s truth is still at work today—bringing peace in our time.
I have told you these things, so that you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33 (NIV)
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 (NIV)
For a story about how to be a peacemaker in difficult times, please read peace by piece.
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