peace

Peace on Earth, Goodwill Toward Men

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

The neighbor across the street finally came over to introduce himself fifteen months after we moved in. Oh. I suppose we could have walked over and extended the hand of friendship first, but we didn’t. We see each other from a distance and have raised a hand in greeting many times. But the neighbor finally made the first move. And somehow the conversation quickly circled to the fact that the person who had formerly lived in the house next door to us had filed a lawsuit against him. And the suit went on for five expensive years. Oh. This man who stood in our driveway had won in multiple courts, but it came at a cost for both him and the woman who sued him. He lost five years without a floor in his barn. She lost her home.

The lawsuit? She sued him because he built a small barn that blocked her view of the lake. Honestly. I can see her point. The barn isn’t a thing of beauty. And it does partially block even my view of the lake. But the man who owned the property built the barn without asking anyone’s permission. It was his property to use as he saw fit. Even if it disgruntled the neighbor. It’s easy to say that the rest of the neighbors were glad when she was forced to move out of her home. It’s called foreclosure. All because of an unnecessary lawsuit. Yes. She lost her home because she put all her money into a frivolous lawsuit that she eventually lost. Even the highest court in the state thought her lawsuit was ridiculous and declined to review it.

What is peace? Is it even possible these days to declare peace? I know it isn’t peace when two opposing sides won’t even speak to each other. Or when they cut each other off from having a relationship. I know it isn’t a peaceful protest when there is gunfire and violence and burning buildings. It isn’t peace when one neighbor files a lawsuit against someone across the street.

According to Merriam-Webster, the current definition is a state of tranquility or peace such as freedom from civil disturbance; a state of security or order within a community provided for by law or custom; freedom from being disturbed or bothered by people, noise, etc.; freedom from disquieting thoughts or emotions; harmony in personal relations; a state or period of mutual concord between governments; a pact or agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or are in a state of enmity; or is used interjectionally to ask for silence or calm or as a greeting or farewell.

It seems today there are conflicting thoughts about peace. There is a new unwritten definition that says two parties must mutually agree for there to be peace, particularly in political and cultural views. If there is any hint of disagreement, then there is no peace. It’s all out war. We read of examples of failures of this type of “peace” in the news most every day. It seems that today we can’t have peace unless everyone agrees. And if there is disagreement, one person or party is ousted or destroyed. It doesn’t matter who they are or what the relationship previously looked like.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. John 14:27

So then we look at the life of Jesus. And we read of two seemingly conflicting thoughts of peace relating to his life and mission on this earth.

We read the Christmas story in Luke 2:1-40. The night Jesus was born, shepherds were in the fields watching their sheep. Suddenly an angel appeared under the cover of darkness and proclaimed a message the shepherds didn’t quite understand. Yet they believed what the were told. Then a host of angels appeared praised God saying, “Glory to God in the highest , and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

Ten chapters later in Luke 12, we read that Jesus said that he did not come to bring peace to the earth. He says. I come to divide people against each other. And how can we reconcile these two Scriptures? Luke 2:14 and Luke 12.

“I have come to set the world on fire, and I wish it were already burning! I have a terrible baptism of suffering ahead of me, and I am under a heavy burden until it is accomplished. Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other! From now on families will be split apart, three in favor of me, and two against—or two in favor and three against. ‘Father will be divided against son and son against father; mother against daughter and daughter against mother; and mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.’ ”Luke 12:49-53

Jesus knew his coming to earth had an eternal purpose for all mankind. He knew his message would turn the tides. He was fulfilling the prophesies of old. And he knew his role and purpose in his Father’s plan. He couldn’t sit idly by and watch people just live the Jewish law. He came to fulfill it. He was the promised Messiah. The Savior of the world that his people had been waiting for. He knew that, yet not everyone received his message with open arms and open hearts.

These two chapters in Luke go from angelic beings proclaiming peace on the night the Promised Messiah was born to that Promised Messiah announcing that he does not bring peace to the world. What a contrast we see, but the message is really the same. The message of both announcements is that Jesus Christ was sent to the earth to bring peace to our troubled souls. But that peace can only be achieved through the acceptance of his message. And before that message is received, there will be trouble within and without us. We will have to reconcile to ourselves that in order for Jesus to be Lord of our lives, we must bow in submission to him. That is no easy task for proud individuals.

When Jesus cried out, “It is finished,” as he hung on that old rugged cross, he knew that he was paying the ultimate price for peace in men’s hearts. He knew that peace could be attained by all men, but there would be warfare of all kinds heaped upon those created in his image. He knew we would struggle with temptations to sin. He knew we would cause wars and endless trouble in this world. He knew we would be selfish and greedy and seek to punish those who disagreed with us. But his gift of salvation offered us forgiveness for all our sins. But we must be willing to pay the price of self sacrifice in order to have the peace that only He can give.

The difference in the woman stirring up trouble in the neighborhood because her view of the lake was blocked and Jesus coming to divide people was that he was stirring the hearts of men and women to either believe in him or reject him. His purpose had eternal consequences. And everyone must choose which path to follow. Belief or disbelief in the Savior of the world. The woman next door stirred up trouble because her feelings were hurt. She could have bought the house across the street and had a more magnificent view of the lake. But no. She chose the path of hard resistance, and it cost her nearly everything. Jesus chose the path of dying on the cross for all mankind to save us from losing our souls. He obeyed his Father’s will to die for our sins so we wouldn’t have to.

In the midst of a troubled world, Jesus does bring peace to hurting hearts and wounded souls. He offers forgiveness and is waiting for us to respond. We can have peace in a troubled world if only we turn our hearts toward Him.

Unexpected Interruptions

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His day didn’t go as planned. What was meant to be a quick lunch turned into an afternoon of frenzy. He always leaves the office during lunchtime so he can reset his mind and renew his energy. And before going back into the office, he’ll check his text and voice messages. This day turned into a chaos of events. While turning onto the busy street, an oncoming car traveling at top speed hit him. Front and center. His car spun in a full circle ending back in the direction he was headed. Air bags deployed. Glasses flew off his face. He was in a daze, to say the least. Fortunately, he suffered no physical injuries.

This man’s car would never start again, but the other driver drove off undetected to most. However, one eyewitness saw the driver escape and reported it. Police officers arrived. Questions were asked. Facts were gathered. Stories of the event were shared. Broken glass and debris were swept off the street. The car was towed. A ticket was written. A rental car was acquired.

He called his wife and shared the bad news. She arrived to take him home. He asked if she had learned mercy from the incident. When she said yes, she asked what he had learned. Humility. He said.

There was no need for harsh words or reprimands. There is a time to be silent and merciful in a difficult situation. When someone is shaken up and remorseful all at the same time, they don’t need to hear belittling words. Kind words and reassurance go a long way to heal a troubled heart.

Be still, and know that I am God! Psalms 46:10

In the midst of the life’s turmoil, we can learn contentment. Momentary peace comes from having a working car or an accident-free record. Sustaining peace comes from knowing God. Life will throw us curveballs when we least expect them. And we must be able to punt and do the next right thing. Whatever it looks like, life will continue on. Oh sure. A working, drivable car is a very good thing. And an accident-free driving record keeps the insurance rates lower. What we call necessities of life may only be things we should strive for and not demand. There are things we shouldn’t take for granted. We seem to miss them only when we need them and don’t have them.

The car may be totaled. The body may be shaken and the ego bruised. The soul can still be at peace through every circumstance. We know that the tests of life come to build our faith. It may not seem that a minor traffic accident could be a faith builder, but knowing that God’s hand of protection was surrounding the scene is a great comfort. Knowing that no one was injured brings peace of mind. Knowing that another car can be found brings stability. Hindsight is sometimes 20/20.

Life is full of chaos, sometimes caused by oneself and at other times caused by others. Life is basically out of our control. The events of daily life can be overwhelming, but we can learn resilience through a consistent walk with God. Because when circumstances in life are challenging, God is faithful. God makes his presence and power known when we stop and take a moment to dwell on his goodness. Even in the midst of unexpected, awful events, God is still good.

Attracting Others

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As Christians, our goal is to see others make the decision to live for God. To repent of their sins and live in obedience to God’s Word. In order for those who haven’t made that decision to get there, we must make Christianity attractive. But how do we do that? Because what they know of Christianity doesn’t appeal to them. If someone hasn’t read and studied the Bible, all they know about Christians is what they do and don’t do. What they stand for and what they stand against. They think it’s all about rules they don’t want to follow.

Look like this. Don’t look like that. Wear this. Don’t wear that. Go here. Don’t go there. Drink this. Don’t drink that. Say this. Don’t say that. Sleep here. Don’t sleep there. Rules like that don’t attract too many people. But what message are we sending when we say and do the same things they say and do? What sets us apart? What makes us different if we’re just like them?

And it really shouldn’t be an us or them kind of issue. Should it? But for this moment, let’s think along those terms. Just to see where it takes us. No judging. Just considering how to appeal to those who don’t call themselves Christians. Because really. We are in two sets of camps, based on our beliefs.

How do we make living a Christian life appealing to those who don’t want it? After all, the Bible tells us that we who believe carry the scent of death to those who don’t believe. Yet the aroma of Christ is sweet. But they can’t smell the sweetness. So why would they want it? Who is attracted to stink, after all?

Some people think they need to change. To clean up their lives before they turn themselves over to Christ. But he doesn’t require that. He invites you to come to him just as you are. He will let you know when or if he wants you to change.

Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this? 2 Corinthians 2:15-16

The gospel is offensive. It has always been offensive to those in rebellion to Christ. God isn’t going to change who he is. We need him to change who we are or face the consequences!

Samuel E. Tolley III

And those who haven’t accepted the message of salvation and repentance think we are fools for believing it. After all. If we’re good, isn’t that good enough? Some would say so. But for those who believe the Bible speaks the truth, we know that being good isn’t good enough. Because we’re never going to be good enough on our own. We need the saving blood of Jesus Christ to wash away our sins. We need to repent of our sins and ask for forgiveness. Then we, too, will be covered with the life-giving perfume.

The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18 8

So. If the gospel is offensive to those who don’t believe, how do we make it un-offensive? How do we attract others to faith in Christ?

You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Philippians 2:5

Of course. The Bible gives us some guidelines to follow in order to attract others to Christianity. We must show love to everyone, even when we don’t feel like it. And especially when others don’t deserve it. We must be joyful. Joy comes from a deep abiding peace that when we trust God in all circumstances. We must pursue peace with everyone. Even when it’s difficult. We must turn the other cheek, but we don’t have to allow others to walk all over us. We’re told that patience is a virtue, but it speaks volumes when put into action. Being kind to others should be a given. We think. But sometimes we have to try a little harder than expected, but the payout is worth it. Goodness and faithfulness. Gentleness and self-control. When others see these fruits of the spirit in our lives, they will wonder how it’s possible to live in such a manner. We have the opportunity to show that Christ living in us makes us more like him. And that he makes a difference in how we live our lives. We always have a choice as to how we live and how we treat others. And a godly lifestyle is attractive, even when others don’t know where the godliness comes from.

We always have a choice as to the type of employee or employer we will be. Go to work and do a good job. Be faithful. Be diligent. Speak up when necessary. And keep quiet when necessary. Others will notice. Be a good neighbor. Show kindness to those in need. Be generous, but not overly frivolous. Treat others the way you want to be treated. Don’t complain or argue.

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. Galatians 5:22-26

Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. Philippians 2:14-15

We believers can do this. We can live a life that makes others want peace, joy, patience, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Oh. We may not get it right every time, but let’s show the world that they need what we have. And let’s do it with grace.

Running on Fumes

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I can only imagine how Mary felt as she rode that donkey to Bethlehem. Hugely pregnant with a child she never planned to carry. Traveling with a husband she had never slept with. Now she was basically alone giving birth in a strange place without her mother and other women who knew about birthing babies. No baby shower to honor her and provide for the baby’s needs. No one to gently advise her on mothering and wifely duties. She was a woman without, yet she had all she needed. God was with her.

This year has been that type of year for many of us. We’ve lived alone in our own homes. Not allowed to freely live our lives. We wear masks in public. We’re advised to follow the guidelines, yet we see so many of our leaders freely breaking those guidelines when it suits their whims. We’re told we need to lockdown, yet the lockdown is pulling some people and businesses under without hope for survival.

In some states, churches aren’t allowed to meet in person. But you bet that riots welcome any and all unmasked activists with open arms. Indoor dining is banned in some states, unless you’re in a special class of people. Vaccines are being administered, but no one is satisfied with the priority of recipients. Life is turning out to be hard for so many of us who are accustomed to comfort and mild luxury. We have taken freedom and spontaneity for granted.

I’ve said it before, and apparently, I’m saying it again. This has been a tough year. For many reasons. For many people. In many ways.

For most of the pandemic, I’ve been handling things pretty well. Except for the fact that I’m working from home, my life really hasn’t changed. There have been times during the past nine months when I’ve realized I’m happiest when I’m at home. So working from home has been a great relief for me. My commute is non-existent. I haven’t seen the workplace drama queen since early March. I can use flex time each week. Life sometimes feels pretty good.

But then reality hits. Work demands take all the joy out of working from home. Unorganized and lazy coworkers make the job a lot harder than it should be. Management makes changes without vetting them and expects everyone to fall in line. Workers are expected to do more with less. And the list goes on.

You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock. Isaiah 26:3-4

People are on edge this year. For different reasons. Those who lost their jobs are fearful of what lies ahead. Those who are essential workers are running on fumes. And still more is expected.

 I am one of those essential workers. And for that I am grateful. I really am. No. I don’t work in healthcare, but I work with healthcare companies. And my work is never ending. Especially at this time of year. 

I so don’t want to complain. But today, enough is enough. 

I find I am easily annoyed at things I can normally brush off. I find anger bubbling when there’s no need. I find I need to slow my thoughts to find the true reason for my outbursts. I find I’m probably not the easiest to live with in these uncertain times.

I want to be kinder. I want to be patient. I want to hold close those I’m close to. And I find it’s a choice. I must search deep within to learn the reason I am so on edge. The findings aren’t comfortable, but growth never is. And I realize that comfort isn’t a necessity of life. But oh. How I wish it was. And I’m learning that comfort may be a thing of the past. Can I live with that?

I know that my true comfort is in the saving grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. He is with me in all my trials and troubles. He is with me when life doesn’t seem kind or fair. He is the great I Am. He is my protector and provider. He is with me always. Even to the ends of the earth.

The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever. Psalms 121:8

I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid. John 14:27

Peace in Tough Times

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These days are tough times for many people.  Some are afraid to leave their homes.  Others are now homeschooling their kids. People have lost their jobs.  Numbers are going up. Numbers are going down. Patience is running thin. Some are wondering when this craziness will ever end.

Someone in my family was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Surgery is being scheduled. Another family member has family members who were impacted by the explosion in Beirut. They are safe for the moment, but daily provisions are uncertain. Another family member is recovering from major surgery and doing well with her daily physical therapy.  And she’s seven years old.

There are people who are coping with this pandemic crisis by drinking daily. When that wasn’t a normal thing for them. They’re trying to cope with the unexpected changes in life. Because life isn’t going so well this year.

There are businesses that had great plans for the future but now find themselves in bankruptcy.  There are families who find they can no longer meet their monthly payments.  There are people who qualified for unemployment benefits but haven’t received a check. 

Oh. These are troubled times. 

There are years that ask questions and years that answer.

Zora Neale Hurston

There is a presidential election in less than three months.  The results could send this country and the world into even more chaos. Regardless of who wins. It’s a wait and see kind of year. Everyone is holding their breath and can’t seem to exhale.

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Colossians 3:15

These are indeed troubled times. 

Sports seasons have been canceled. School semesters have moved online. Church services are streaming live. High school seniors feel their senior year has been stolen from them.

People are searching like they have never searched before. But what are they looking for?

Peace. Freedom. Calm. Structure. Contentment. Understanding. Patience. Relief. Normal.

People want their lives to be normal again. But what does that even look like anymore? Are we looking at a new normal that we just keep fighting?

Have you found what you’re looking for yet? Are you looking in the right place? Do you that know peace can be found?

Did you know that peace is a gift from God? And he is the source of all peace.

What does the peace that comes from Christ even look like? What does that mean?

Imagine if we lived in a world where peace reigned instead of chaos and confusion. Imagine the life we could have. I have to ask myself. Does peace rule every one of my relationships? Do I think peace before striking the first blow of revenge? Or slinging the first word of accusation and judgment? Does the thought of peace guide my conversations and actions? Does peace rule my emotions?

Oh, troubled soul. Peace is a command that God speaks to us. We are called to live in peace with each other. Peace can only be commonplace if it comes from Christ. Nothing else gives lasting peace. Nothing. If we can’t find peace in these troubled days, then we’re looking for peace in all the wrong places.

Because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel. Philippians 4:7

Yes. These are troubled times. But peace is possible in the midst of the storm. Spend time with God. Actually, open the Bible and read God’s word. Let it saturate your heart and mind. Trust God. Don’t just say you trust God. Actually let go of your need to control everything and let God do his job. Oh. It isn’t easy. But it is possible. God will give peace in difficult times. He may not do everything the way we want, but His will and ways are perfect. So let’s trust him. And dare to see what happens in our hearts. Even when life isn’t perfect.

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:16

Peace in the Storm

~ mercyfortheday ~ 1 Comment

In times of uncertainty, it’s easy to doubt God. To wonder what he’s doing. To not understand why he would allow such things to happen. Wondering is ok. Trust is important. God’s word is truth. He is faithful. His promises will always stand. God does not lie.

We don’t like to be inconvenienced. We want to do what we want to do. Sometimes that just can’t and won’t happen. Life will go on. Life may change. But as long as we have breath, God is and will always be good.

God’s promises are true. We can trust him. We may not see his promises fulfilled in our lifetime, but God does not lie. He will do as he says.

Here is a reminder of what God’s Word says. 

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart. I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. John 14:27

Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

I will never fail you. I will never abandon you. Hebrews 13:5

God does not give us everything we want, but He does fulfill His promises, leading us along the best and straightest paths to Himself.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Lead me to the towering rock of safety, for you are my safe refuge. Psalm 61:2-3

He will cover you with his wings when you need refuge from the storm. Psalm 91:4

Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This alone I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him. For he will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly disease. He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection. Psalm 91:1-4

If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. Jeremiah 29:13

This is what the Lord says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s. 2 Chronicles 20:15

The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm. Exodus 14:14

Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, until the destroying storms pass by. Psalm 57:1

I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Matthew 28:20

Thank you for your faithfulness, Father. In the middle of trouble. In the storms of uncertainty. Lord, you’re the one thing we count on. Everyday your faithfulness carries us through.

Brian Doerksen

Stand Lest You Fall

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Peter and John had healed a man in front of the temple.  As they spoke to a crowd of people who had gathered, they were confronted by the temple leaders and guards about their teachings.  Peter and John were arrested and put in jail overnight.

The leaders could see the man who had been healed. I wonder if they recognized him as the lame man who had sat outside the temple for years. Had they ever given him money? Or had they ignored him as they walked past? They couldn’t deny that this was the same man. And here he was made whole. He was standing and walking around. He was praising God. They couldn’t deny that a miracle had happened. And they were furious.

The next morning, the council of all the rulers, elders and teachers of religious law met to discuss what to do with Peter and John.  The high priest and some of his relatives were involved in the meeting.  These were important people.  Or so they thought. 

I can only imagine the conversations of these high and mighty men the night before as they plotted their strategy to take down these two disciples.  They were furious that Peter and John were teaching that Jesus had been resurrected from the dead.  But did they know that 5,000 people believed the story?  Did they know that the news of Jesus’ life and death and resurrection was spreading like wildfire?  What were they really afraid of here?

By what power, or in whose name, have you done this?

When confronted about their teachings, Peter and John didn’t hold back.   They were commanded to stop preaching about Jesus, the one who had been killed for claiming to be God Almighty.  Instead of cowering and backing down, they stood and boldly spoke the truth. 

The leaders tried bullying the two men, but they stood their ground.  Their faith was strong, and their commitment was unwavering.  They were fearless.

The Lord gives his people strength. The Lord blesses them with peace. Psalms 29:11

I wonder.  If I was confronted about speaking the truth of Jesus’ life and death and resurrection to a group of people, what would I do?  Would I cower?  Would I change my story?  Would I cover up the truth?  Would I give in and walk away?  Would I stand up for my beliefs in the midst of possible persecution? Would I boldly speak the truth?  What would I do?

These two men were just ordinary men.  They had no special training in the Scriptures.  What they did have was an intimate knowledge and personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  They knew this Jesus.  They had walked with him.  They had talked with him.  They had eaten with him.  They had served the crowds miraculous food when there was no food.  They had seen Jesus at his best and at his worst.  They witnessed his arrest. Peter witnessed his trial, trying to blend in with the crowd. There was that time that he wasn’t willing to boldly stand for Jesus. There was a time right before Jesus was nailed to the cross that Peter had denied knowing him.  Not once, but three times.  All in the matter of a few short hours.  But he repented of his ways and became an outspoken teacher of Scriptural truths. 

So when he was asked to never speak to anyone in Jesus’ name again, what do you think he said?  Of course, he boldly took a stand for truth. His life had been changed. He was a forgiven man. He would not be quiet about his faith and trust in God.

Do you think God wants us to obey you rather than him? –Peter

Would I be so bold?  Would I be willing to risk my life in order to stand for Jesus? 

Peter and John didn’t know that they would later pay the price for continuing to share the Gospel.  Peter was crucified upside down.  John was sent to live in exile on an island, because he preached about God. While he was alone, he wrote one of the most profound books of the Bible. You can’t tell me that even in the midst of persecution, God isn’t present. You can’t tell me that God isn’t with us in our suffering. God is with us even in the most difficult, trying times of life.

What would I be willing to give up in order that others might hear the truth?  Would I be willing to risk everything so that others could enjoy eternal life?  Would I be willing to stand when falling to peer pressure would be an easier path to follow? Am I willing to stand?