A Promise of Peace 

   Life is going great.  Everything is as it should be, no problems, no worries, not a care in the world.  Then it hits; the illness, the financial crisis, the marital problems, whatever the dilemma, our peace is ruined.

   Jesus told us many times that life would not be easy.  “Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself.  Sufficient for today is its own evil.” (Matt 6: 34).  But when we place our trust in the Lord, we have a friend who is with us always.  He will never abandon us though at times we may think He has.  Ask and He will help, even carrying us upon Himself when it is more that we can bear.

   The most cursory look at history will tell us that peace has been in short supply in this world since the fall of Adam and Eve.  The paradise we were intended to inherit was lost due to their sin of pride.  Humanity would suffer for their sin but was never abandoned.  A promise was made to Satan, “I will put enmity between your offspring and hers; They will strike at your head, while you strike at their heel.” (Gen 3: 15).  That promise was fulfilled on a hill outside Jerusalem; death was overcome by the Son of God on a cross.

   Jesus doesn’t promise we will never suffer trials and tribulations; in fact, He warns us that these will surely come when we follow Him.  What He does promise is His peace in our heart; a knowledge that no matter the difficulties that come our way He is with us.  He promises us His peace and that promise will be fulfilled. 

We face difficulties.

There are trials to be borne.

In You there is peace.

Comfort us in times of trouble. 

Amen