The Pacific Ocean was named by the explorer, Ferdinand Magellan, in 1520. In his quest to find a western route to the spice islands, he sailed to the southern tip of South America and went through a strait that now bears his name. After navigating through the rough and treacherous waters, he entered a great body of water that was very calm and serene, in which he experienced smooth sailing for weeks. The word, pacific, comes from the Latin term which means peaceful.
Peace is something most everyone desires to have and maintain in their daily lives. However, it is a state that seems to be elusive to so many. The evidence of such is revealed in broken homes, hostile work environments, problem schools, high crime areas, political conflict, discord among brethren, and the like. Though there is much strife in the world, the Lord has called His people to peace: And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful (Colossians 3:15, NKJV).
Therefore, peace is not only possible for the Christian, it is the expectation. But peace for the Christian is not dependent upon external circumstances, such as a good job, riches, or tranquil relationships. It is based upon one's relationship with the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ. Unlike rulers who pursue war and bloodshed, this Prince desires the safety of all people and has the power to bestow it (cf. Luke 19:10).
Since Jesus is the source of peace, one can only have true peace if he comes to Him in humble and loving obedience. The world cannot offer true peace, but only temporary comforts. Peace, I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid (John 14:27). Jesus had told them He would be leaving them to return to the Father, but even in His physical absence, their hearts could be at rest.
Note the first thing that Jesus said after His resurrection to His fearful disciples who were hiding from the Jews: "Peace be with you" (John 20:19). Though external circumstances called for panic in the apostles, peace radiated from the Lord. These men would later exhibit true peace in the midst of violent persecution as revealed in the book of Acts.
Are you at peace? When one is at peace with God, this will extend to his other relationships. May we heed the words of the apostle Peter, who writing of the day when the Lord would come a second time, said, Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless (2 Peter 3:14). May we be diligent indeed.
Brotherly,Jamie
