Peace is transitory in our world.

People in Gaza don’t know peace the morning, nor do their neighbors in Israel. Ukrainians still don’t know peace, despite being pushed off the front page. Wars subside in one region of the world only to flare up in another, like heinous geysers spewing destruction.

Jesus spoke to the human heart when 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.

Geopolitical realities trouble my heart. But worries and fears closer to home keep me up at night. Some for good reason, and others due only to my imagination. Regardless of the source, Jesus extends relief.

Jesus promised the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, who will teach his ways and remind his followers of what Jesus taught. The Holy Spirit roots the words of Jesus into our psyche. The more we look to the Holy Spirit and trust the words of Jesus, the closer we get to the peace Jesus described.

Lean in. Return again and again to the words of Jesus. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance, then open the Scriptures and flood your soul. When I do so, fear subsides and hope emerges.

Look to the Prince of Peace for peace of heart and mind.

John 14 in reading the Bible in 2023

Photo by Falaq Lazuardi