The psalmist encourages us to "seek peace and pursue it." (Ps. 34:14) David would also later declare to the Lord, "Great peace have they who love your law." (Ps. 119:165)Solomon would state with confidence, "A heart at peace gives life to the body." (Pr. 14:30)
Isaiah prophesied that the "Prince of Peace" would come from a virgin (Is. 9:6). This prophecy was fulfilled in the birth of Jesus Christ. This same Jesus, as a grown man, would say, "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword." (Mt. 10:34)
How are we to reconcile this paradox? These scriptures seem to be contradictory, but the Spirit which gives us understanding helps us to see that Christ's first coming brought the sword by which He divides those who fully follow Him versus those who only profess His name. His Second Coming is to usher in everlasting peace. In the meantime, those who are fully-devoted followers of the Prince of Peace find that He IS their peace, both in this life and in the life to follow.
Have you ever noticed how the genuinely converted Christian displays a remarkable CALM in the midst of tragedy, trial and tumult? I have, and it IS quite remarkable.
The question is...do you have peace? Is Jesus YOUR Peace, or are you trying to find peace through some other means. This Sunday, we will learn from God's inerrant, holy, inspired LOVE LETTER to man that we all CAN have the peace of Christ.
See you Sunday!
Pastor Randy
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