God's Peace

"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways. The Lord be with all of you." 2 Thess 3:16

One of the most peaceful places I have ever visited was Puerto Rico. The warm winds were blowing as they do all year. We made the journey a couple of years ago to visit a friend who was in hospice. We did not make it in time to visit him as he died before we got on the plane. We were able to visit with his wife and sons.

In spite of the grief, there was serenity surrounding the visit. The wife, a friend of mine, is a very faithful woman. No matter what trials or tribulations she has faced over the decades, she has faced them with courage and with the peace of heart that only God can give.

As we face the winds and waves of various storms, may God grant us peace at all times and in all ways.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Storms

Luke 8:22-25 NRSV
Jesus calms the disciples and the seas. He commands even the winds and the waters. They listen to him. But, there is something else we need to remember. The storm did not begin until they were out on the sea with Jesus.

Following Jesus is no guarantee that there will not be storms in your life. In fact, it might guarantee even a few more. If you truly follow Jesus you will face obstacles and opposition of all kinds. Jesus never promised that we would not have troubling or stormy times. Only that with him, we would weather them. We would live. We can live in peace knowing that the one who has power over all things is with us always.

There is no need to fear the storms. The one who commands the winds and the waves is with you and for you. But, sometimes, you will need to experience a few storms on the sea before you can reach the other side.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Mark 4:35-41 Jesus Stills All Storms

When we are faced with seemingly over-powering obstacles, we might wonder why God would allow these bad things to happen to us. We might even wonder if God has deserted us completely. Be assured, He has not left us. In fact, in the story of Jesus getting into the boat with the disciples that we read today, the storm does not begin until Jesus gets in to the boat with them and takes a nap.

They wake him, fearful for their lives. He proceeds to command the wind and the waves to "Quiet! Be still!" (Mark 4:39 NIV) Our Savior has power over even the wind and the waves. Be not alarmed. Have faith. God is with you in every time of trial. The storm will pass! Jesus has power over all storms!

God's Peace - Pr. J