Most people's definition of peace would be lack of stress, strife, or conflict, but that isn't possible in this broken world. But there is a certain Prince of Peace, Who has promised us perfect peace, but not peace as the world gives it, a peace that passes all understanding (got that song stuck in your head now?) but how can that be when we are also promised strife, troubles, and sorrow by the same Person? He who promises to bring not Peace but a Sword? Ah, the paradox of this strange, funny, wonderful life! You can have Joy even in your sorrow, Confidence amidst your doubt and uncertainty, you can be Holy even while sin haunts your daily steps, and Peace amidst chaos and strife.
Peace is one thing I cherish above all else in our home. I never had it growing up, only an uneasy break in the constant tension when my mother wasn't home, but she always came back and then the constant belittling, shaming, criticism, and frustration would begin anew. We don't have a perfect home, far from it, especially with two rather loud kids, and four quite strong willed people, we have our share of disagreement, tantrums, and disagreeable episodes, but behind and beneath it all, there's a love that never gives up or goes away, hope is never quenched, a person's value is never questioned, and one's security is never threatened. My kids don't worry that I might not love them anymore if they don't listen. My husband doesn't wonder if I'll be here in the morning after a disagreement the previous night.
That's the Peace that is offered, not a peace the world understands, for it is something from beyond the world as we know it. A peace, a security, a sure-footed stance on an immovable mountain rooted in eternity itself, no matter what the storms of life throw at you, even if war engulfs you, that sort of Peace will never waiver or fail. And it is free to all takers, if we'll only accept it.
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