"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you." - 2 Thessalonians 3:16
I hope that everyone is feeling blessed, I haven’t posted a blog in awhile due to a busy semester! Seven classes seems like a lot but with wonderful professors and great classmates, it wasn’t all that bad. ;) However, that is not the only reason. I’m not one to write about everything I think or hear. I write when I feel inspired to share what God has laid on my heart.
A common Bible verse or lyric to a song that is commonly quoted at Christmas time comes from Luke 2:14 which says “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” As I was reflecting on this verse, I had a “aha” moment as I was thinking of a few more verses from scripture. Shortly before Jesus’ death, He said “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) A few chapters later in John 16:33, we see Jesus telling us again that “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
The English definition of peace is “freedom from disturbance; quiet and tranquility.” However, if you look at the Hebrew and Greek word for peace you will find that its’ meaning is so much greater. I strongly recommend that you all do your own research to find the meanings of shalom (Hebrew) and eiréné (Greek). Essentially the word peace means that we are completed and made whole. With the peace of Jesus, there is harmony, safety, security, prosperity, felicity, salvation, rest, reconciliation, health and so much more.
Jesus tells us that in this world there will be trouble and it is true, as we see tragedy, evil and horror but remember we are told to take heart (to receive courage and comfort) because Jesus did indeed overcame the world, and so have we. “For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” (1 John 5:4)
Peace entered the world the exact moment that Jesus was born and His peace is still with us this very moment in time. We have nothing to be afraid of, so let go of all the worry and fear, and rest in the peace and promises that He has given us.
I hope that you and your family all have a blessed and Merry Christmas filled with God's peace, blessings and grace.
