Reflect on the following:

Do you know that throughout recorded history there has never been a period of complete global peace? Though some consider we have been in a state of “long peace” since the end of WW2 that isn’t the reality for the millions who have lived in Myanmar, Rwanda, Nigeria, Congo, Somalia, Libya, Vietnam, Sudan, Syria, Iran, Iraq, Ukraine, Palestine and so many more countries.

Then there’s our own homes. It’s rare to meet a family where there isn’t an estrangement, an ongoing conflict, or a renegade somewhere in the family tree or even sitting around the dinner table.

Getting even more personal there’s the conflict within us -- the uncertainty, the arguments with ourselves, the double guessing and anxieties.

Peace… world peace, family peace, inner peace it all seems unattainable for any length of time. But Jesus said: “What is impossible for people is possible for God.” Luke 18:27

When Jesus said this, he was answering the question “who can be saved?” Another way the Bible speaks of salvation is having peace with God. With the wars around us and the conflict within us we often overlook our deepest need for reconciliation and peace - peace with God.

If we can’t garner peace amongst us or within us how can we possibly secure peace with God? We can’t! It is impossible for us but is possible for God. That is exactly what Jesus came to earth to do, earn peace with God for us. He paid the penalty for our rebellion and warring with his undeserved crucifixion. His death bought our everlasting peace.

Can you imagine everlasting peace? Being in God’s beautiful, all loving presence for eternity in heaven. No more arguments or slammed doors. No more weapons or funerals. Nor more sickness or anxieties. Tranquility, contentment, everlasting peace. This is what God has made possible for all of us through Jesus. It is everything you’ve ever really wanted. Accept this gift from God today.

PRAYER

Dear God, I cannot find peace on my own. I am distressed by the wars and conflicts around me and inside me and I know I don't have the power to stop them. Forgive me for my own rebellion against you. I want the everlasting peace you offer through Jesus. Amen