Shelter of Peace

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

On the brink of a new year my thoughts and goals for the future surround the hope of little more than peace , peace and good cheer for 2022.

We’ve come out of a time of tremendous upheaval and conflict. Sorrows and grief have left many of us reeling and searching for what can’t be taken from us, what can’t be lost in these uncertain times. My mind and heart turn to the Saviour, Jesus Christ. The person, the Creator, the God in eternity who cannot change and offers to all mankind peace and everlasting comfort.

Jesus warned his disciples, as He warns us, that in this world we will have tribulation. This world is in a fallen state of sin awaiting judgment but according to the good news announced to the shepherds by the heavenly host that first Christmas night, there is a blessed hope to escape this judgement and receive eternal life. That is why we celebrate Christmas. Indeed what good news it is, that though we suffer loss and pain in this life, and commit sins and sins are committed against us, there is a Savioiur who gave His life to redeem our pain and loss, and recconcile us back to the Father through his life and death on the cross.

He gives us great comfort in His promise of life eternal. For this earthly life is temporary and traveling so fast to it’s conclusion. A staggering truth so many of us have been painfully reminded of as we see our dear loved ones pass into eternity in what seems like the blink of an eye. He promises, “verily verily I say unto you, he that believeth on me hath everlasting life “.

We may find ourselves suffering great loss at this year’s end, and the future at best may seem bleak. But Jesus promises” blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted” “Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. “Blessed is the man whose iniquity is covered”. “He that believeth on me hath everlasting life, and will not come into judgment but has passed from death to life.”

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Come unto me, all ye that are weary and heavy laden and I shall give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart and ye shall find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

The offer, the most gracious gift of the heavenly Father is life everlasting, forgiveness of sin and eternal comfort from the storm of this fallen world, it’s sinful nature, and the wrath to come. The gift is free, as all true gifts are, though it cost our God everything. It is a gift that is permanent, perfectly provided, perfectly given from a perfect God. Once received, it can never be lost, forfeited, or stolen.

A shelter of Peace. The Prince of Peace is calling all men to Himself, to the Peace of God, which passeth all understanding. Will you receive his gift to you? How do you receive this gift you might ask? You simply take it, by faith. You believe on His name.