By: Elizabeth Haarberg

Peace Every Day.

To listen to today’s devotion click on this SoundCloud link.

I find myself writing about peace again. It seems to be the theme of the year. I find that the vise-grip of all that is changing this year is stifling at times. Some days I recognize when I’ve lost my peace and other days I go for long stretches complaining either out loud or in my head. When I stop and let God minister to my fear, anxiety, and anger, the emotions begin to level out.

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16 English Standard Version

One thing I’ve learned about peace is it’s tangible.

“Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace be to this house!’ And if a son of peace is there, your peace will rest upon him. But if not, it will return to you.” Luke 10:5-6 English Standard Version

When Jesus tells the disciples that “peace will rest upon him” he is not saying in a symbolic way that peace will be present. If a bird landed on our shoulder, we would feel its presence. Peace is the same. When peace lands on us or someone else, it’s accepted or rejected. If it is rejected, it will be returned to you or the person who offered peace.

Peace is a gift that is meant to be given away to others. It’s God’s gift to anyone who wants it. It’s our job to carry peace and give it away to those who want or need.

I can survive without peace, but I don’t make good decisions if I don’t have it. I can live without peace, but life is much more fruitful when peace is present in my life.

If you want or need peace, just ask Jesus for it or another believer who carries peace. It’s ours for the taking.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado