06/10/2014
Peace…
“Trying to find peace” were the words that an unsuspecting young man uttered, as he sat, defeated in his countenance, to an equally unsuspecting old man, me, as we sat near each other. In humility and in a quiet tone, but with boldness, I simply proclaimed, “I know where you can find that.”
To say that it is interesting to experience how the Lord orchestrates our days is an understatement; how He places men into each other’s paths and in those predetermined, defined moments in time, when we least expect spiritual encounters, He offers opportunity to listen intently and an equal opportunity to witness.
I know this young man fairly well. A successful business man, a picture of health and one that daily assists and encourages others, with great success, to find physical fitness and make it a greater part of their lives. If you were to come across this young man, you would be more than impressed with the way he carries himself, the manner of his speech, and the kindness he offers to others each and every day.
He too knows me, by the response he would give, when I spoke that I knew where he might find such peace. Almost with a bit of anger, a tinge of bitterness and with sure disbelief in his voice he blurted out… “church?!”
When I, with greater enthusiasm said “no, not really” the edge came off and I could see him literally change before me. The guard came down, and I could see, quite clearly, the hurt in his eyes. At that very moment, that prearranged, appointed time, he simply needed Jesus. My heart began to break for him immediately as I could somehow feel his pain.
I was given a few brief moments to simply speak of Christ and His desire for an intimate relationship specifically with him and as quickly as the conversation began it was over. I could sense he had become “uncomfortable” talking about Christ in a public setting and we went our own ways.
The physical encounter ended yet I found myself, and still today, in the spiritual realm wrestling, interceding on his behalf, that the peace that evades him, because of his choice, would one day consume him to an overflowing. Actually, I am positive that, he too, someday, will be counted as one that accepts this offer from Him known as the Prince of Peace!
In the gospel of John, near the inevitable, close to the Passion, Jesus had been pouring out, with great intensity, guidance, direction etc. to those that were so very close to him, those in his intimate inner circle. Before he prays for them in chapter 17 he closes in 16:33 with these words… “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
As I contemplate this verse I cannot help but break it down a bit. First, this peace, this place of rest, this place of quietness denotes a state of untroubled, undisturbed wellbeing. I realize I have mentioned the significance of this “peace” in previous posts yet it is worth repeating once again this thought. After Christ resurrection, upon His first appearance to those so very close, what could be of such great importance that it would be His first words to them in His resurrected state? He utters, not simply once, but twice and again a third time with Thomas present… “peace be unto you.”
Secondly, this peace is not forced upon any one. He notes quite clearly, “that in me ye might have peace.” Ultimately, it is our decision, whether we first accept this gift and further still, after acceptance, if we, within our spirits, with great determination, should be humbled and bold enough to walk in such a state each and every day. Might denotes a choice…what shall we choose today?
He then, with great clarity, foretells that which they needed to hear, that which you and I need to hear still today… “In the world ye shall have tribulation.” Jesus chooses His words carefully I am sure. Shall, leaves no doubt about that which He warns of. They, we, shall have tribulation, tumultuous times, heart wrenching experiences, horribly grievous afflictions. These tribulations, in the form of “life” shall crush, shall press in, from all sides on us, and shall squeeze with great intensity. At times, possibly minimal in nature but rest assured many times they shall come with great ferocity, unlimited cruelty, and excessive savagery. Our enemy knows no limit, finds nothing but pleasure as he meets out such brutality.
Yet, Jesus offers this crescendo of words to those that would place their trust in Him… “but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
Father, the words which have been spoken are truly magnificent. We are overflowing with hope, awash with the love that you possess for us and give us each day that we exist here upon this earth. We, I am more than guilty Lord before you this day. We, I am quick to accept and walk in your love with ease, yet when tribulations come, peace many times alludes us, me. Forgive me Lord. Help us, me to experience, adapt and walk in that which Paul spoke of in Philippians 4:6-7 “Be careful for nothing, but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts, and minds through Christ Jesus.”
It seems so simple, yet in reality it is far from such, unless, we with great awareness, choose peace. Today Father, hopefully, as your saints contemplate your offering, may you feel much love flowing back from us and to you in the form of adoration for the sacrifice of your Son and all that His Passion encompassed and still encompasses today. Jesus, as the Great Shepherd, guard us, guide us and feed us with only that which you can provide. Holy Spirit, empower us, lead us, “for as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” To be counted worthy of this continually dumbfounds me?!
Undone once again,
Daniel