Dwell – Day 16

For a while, every single morning, I would make myself a green smoothie. I would throw in fresh spinach and kale along with a banana, whatever frozen fruit I had on hand and I would bring it to work in a giant mason jar.

It really did look like swamp juice and people would question what was in this mason jar because it certainly did not look appetizing.

But on the days that I missed my green smoothie, my body craved something green. I could feel it like an pull within me that my body was craving “something green” because it knew that there were nutrients inside of it that would be a benefit to my body.

I also crave peace in a similar way that I craved my green smoothie. My soul knows I need it.

My mind becomes overwhelmed with racing thoughts, and general responsibilities of day-to-day life (you know, like that ever-building pile of laundry, growing bills, home repairs, and the never-ending planning of what we’ll have dinner…) on top of big life-stressors – and suddenly, life can start to feel uncertain and unsettled.

I know that we all experience moments where peace just feels distant.

But Jesus offers us a different kind of peace the kind that isn’t dependent on our circumstances.

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

In this passage, Jesus reminds us that his peace is not like what the world tries to offer. The peace that the world offers is temporary. It’s based on outward conditions. Things like if general life is going well, if we’re in control and if our problems are easily solved. But Jesus gives us peace that lasts, a deep and abiding sense of calm that remains even in the storm.

One of my favorite lines from “Firm Foundation,” a song we sing often here at Crosspoint, is that “I still have joy and chaos.” This is the type of peace that comes from Jesus.

See, nothing can steal God’s peace. He IS peace.

This kind of peace comes from knowing that Jesus is with us, that he is in control, and that nothing surpasses him. His peace does not mean that our problems disappear. But it does mean, we don’t have to be afraid in the middle of it all. When we choose to turn to Jesus, we are reminded that he is the Prince of Peace, the one who can quiet our anxious hearts, and brings stillness to our souls.

Because of Jesus, I can find peace in all circumstances.

Reflection:

1. Take a moment to journal things that are stealing your peace. Are there specific worries or situations weighing heavily on your heart?
2. When life feels chaotic and you find yourself craving peace, where do you ussally turn for peace or comfort? Is there something you need to surrender to Jesus in that today?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I come to you now feeling the weight of my worries and anxieties. I long for the Peace that I know only you can provide. Lord, I know that your peace is not dependent on my circumstances or situations. I confess to you my need to control situations. Lord, begin to quiet my anxious thoughts and remind me that you are with me and fill me with your calming presence. Lord, I believe that you are the Prince of Peace. Thank you for the gift of your unshakeable peace. In Jesus’ Holy name, Amen.