Peace seems unattainable. It seems out of reach. Media stirs the pot of unrest. Then I look closer to home and find new family illnesses, friends who are hurting, and desires unmet. It is easy for the heart to ache. It’s easy to see difficulties of life. It’s easy for the negative to take over.
Then I hear the words of Jesus, “Peace I give you.” Peace is what I want. Peace is what my heart longs for. Peace seems so hard to obtain, so hard to maintain.
A new year is here. A new year brings the opportunity for a fresh perspective, a new approach, a declaration of peace. As I look around, peace is a much-needed globally and next door. This Proverb reminds me of the choice I have to be a conduit of peace not just within my own mind but to others, as well. It is my choice to counsel peace.
Deceit is in the mind of those who plan evil, but those who counsel peace have joy. (Proverbs 12:20 NIV).
Jesus’ words are for all of us to absorb, rest in and share with others. It is here I find comfort.
27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. (John 14:27 NIV).
“Peace I give you” are words I soak in when life is hard and doesn’t make sense. They are also words I can give to others in times of difficulty. They are words I share through my presence, my care, my intention. We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus. He shows us how to love well. What He gives me, I can offer to others. I can be a living counsel of peace with the words I choose, the things I share on social media, and attention to those around me. This is my resolution for the new year. This is how I can make a difference. Will you join me?