The Advent of Christ -This is the Peace

This is the Peace

By Nancy Stephens
“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


On any given day, our house sounds anything but quiet and peaceful. Between the chatter of little voices, the sound of feet running from room to room, doors slamming, and an occasional dog barking, it is rarely quiet. Most days, I find myself yearning for peace and quiet, convincing myself that those two things are interchangeable. If I could find some quiet, I could find peace. If I could just get away from all of the noise, I could find peace. If everyone could just lower their voices, I could find peace. If someone could just stop bouncing that darn ball in the house, I could find peace. If I could just go on a beach vacation, I could CERTAINLY find peace there. The world’s peace comes with conditions: “If you will just do this, then you will be able to have this.”

But what about this peace that Jesus said He would leave with us?
This peace isn’t determined by our circumstances or our location.
This peace isn’t dependent on the noise level around us.
This peace isn’t something we have to go searching for.
This peace is found in His presence.
This is the peace that rushes over us when we receive a devastating medical diagnosis.
This is the peace that comforts our hearts when we are on our knees crying out to Jesus.
This is the peace that settles our anxiety when we open up and read His word.
This is the peace that cannot be explained and surpasses all of our human understanding.
This peace is an anchor for our soul.

I don’t know what you may be facing or feeling this holiday season, whether it be joy, sorrow, or somewhere in between. What I can tell you is this: Jesus loves you so very much. In His presence is a peace that can never be taken from you, no matter what is going on around you. I hope you can hear Him calling out to you. I hope you can close your eyes and see Him holding out His hand to you. He is patient and kind, never rushing or forcing us to come to Him.
The Prince of Peace is waiting for you with the most beautiful gift - His peace.



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