What Kind of Peace Do We Seek?

We long for peace. In a world brimming with chaos and uncertainty, our hearts yearn for tranquility. Yet, the peace Jesus offers is unlike any we might expect or understand. It is a peace that transcends the ordinary, a peace that does not align with the world's fleeting comforts.

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (John 14:27)

This peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Christ. Jesus speaks these words to His disciples on the eve of His crucifixion, a moment fraught with tension and impending sorrow. The disciples, unaware of the full scope of what is to come, are troubled. Yet Jesus, knowing their fears, offers them His peace—a peace that is deeply rooted in the assurance of His presence and His promises.

The Greek word for peace, eirēnē ^G1515, suggests a joining or setting at one again. It is more than just calmness; it is a restoration, a wholeness that Jesus imparts to His followers. The peace He gives is not the temporary relief the world offers, but a profound and enduring tranquility rooted in His eternal presence.

Consider the story of Thomas, who later in John 14 expresses doubt about knowing the way to where Jesus is going. Jesus reassures him, saying, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). This declaration is not just about direction; it is about relationship. The peace of Jesus is intimately tied to knowing Him and being in communion with Him.

The contrast between worldly peace and the peace of Christ is stark. We often seek a manageable peace, one we can control or predict. But Jesus offers a holy peace, one that requires trust and surrender. As Paul writes in Philippians, "the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:7). This peace is beyond our comprehension because it is anchored in the divine, not in our circumstances.

In the Old Testament, God repeatedly assures His people of His presence and strength. "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God" (Isaiah 41:10). This promise echoes through Jesus' words in John 14. He does not promise an absence of trials but offers His abiding presence as the source of peace.

The peace of Christ challenges us to let go of fear. The Greek word deiliaō ^G1168 used here for "afraid" suggests timidity or cowardice. Jesus calls us to courage rooted in His victory over the world, as He declares, "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).

This peace also transforms our relationships. Paul writes to the Colossians, "And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body" (Colossians 3:15). The peace of Christ is communal, drawing us into unity and gratitude, reflecting the harmony of the body of Christ.

As we consider the peace Jesus offers, we must ask ourselves: what kind of peace are we seeking? Are we looking for a peace that conforms to our desires, or are we open to the transformative peace that Christ provides? This peace demands faith, a trust that God is at work even in the midst of uncertainty.

The story of the disciples in the upper room, after Jesus’ resurrection, offers a glimpse into this peace. When Jesus appears to them, His first words are "Peace be unto you" (John 20:19). In their fear and confusion, Jesus' peace is a balm, a reminder of His presence and His victory over death.

We are invited into this same peace, a peace that is not dependent on our understanding or control but rests securely in the hands of our Savior. It is a peace that calls us to let go of fear and embrace the fullness of life in Christ. We want a manageable God. We get a holy one.

So we return to the question: what kind of peace do we truly seek?

Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the peace that Jesus gives, a peace that surpasses all understanding. Help us to trust in Your presence and let go of our fears. May Your peace rule in our hearts and guide us in unity with one another. In Jesus' name, amen.