“May the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all. (2 Thess. 3:16).
“Peace I leave with you; I give you my peace. I do not give to you as the world gives. Don’t let your hearts be troubled and don’t be afraid.” (Jn. 14:17).
Lord Jesus, we praise, bless, and adore you for many reasons. Today, in particular, we rejoice in your commitment to give us peace “at all times and in every situation.” Such a notion would be laughable—if not a cruel joke, if you weren’t the one making that promise, Jesus.
By your finished work, we already have peace with God. But you haven’t “just” reconciled us to our heavenly Father, he now loves us with the same love and delight he has in you (Jn.17:23). And now you promise us the peace of God—the very peace our Father enjoys as “the God of Peace” (1Thess.5:23)—a stunning thought to say the least. It’s the same peace, in quality and quantity, you spoke of when you promised us, “I give you my peace.” Hallelujah, and help us, Jesus.
How can this be? What is it supposed to look and feel like? Here’s where our hearts go, land, and rest: Because you are reigning at Abba’s right hand, and working in all things for our good (Rm.8:28), nothing is more ultimate than the all-glorious goodness you promise. You rule in, over, and beyond all the intents and events of evil in our lives (Gen.50:20).
This doesn’t make life easy, but it sure gives us a peace that passes all understanding, fear, and anxiety. ALL authority has been given to you, Jesus—in heaven and on earth. Nothing is outside your sovereignty. And you give ALL grace to us. Nothing is greater than your love, will, and plan for us. So Very Amen.