“If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace.” Luke 19:38-42
Lord Jesus, our ache for peace is undeniable and unrelenting. Even with eternal peace through the Gospel, we remain discontented, restless, demanding. Good longings and better judgment get sabotaged by smells, sights, comparison.
The world of “if only” haunts us. If only we were 25 years younger, could live in Singapore, had different genes or jeans, had been born in a different era. If only we could win the lottery, had never been abused, were married (or single) again. If only our kids would say “Yes” to all our suggestions. The if-only-list has no end. Jesus, then we hear you utter the only “If only” that matters.
“If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace.” Indeed, Jesus, only you—yesterday, today, and forever—are the Prince of Peace, King of calm, and Lord of contentment.
Only in union and fellowship with you can we find the deep peace we crave—the shalom for which we have been made and saved. We will remain peaceless and restless—whether we live in a penthouse or outhouse, have good health or terminal brokenness; whether we are adored, ignored, or loathed… until our hearts can sing to you… or sing again… “Whom do I have in heaven but you, Jesus? And being with you I desire nothing on earth” (Psalm 73:25-26).
Until the Day of peace-full-ness, continue to fill and free our hearts with your peace. All we really need is you, plus what you choose to give us, Jesus. So Very Amen.