By: Elizabeth Haarberg

Peace

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.

I don’t really want to write, not because I don’t like to write, but words don’t seem to be enough. No words can capture the chaos and the storm that we are currently in. Words don’t seem to be enough, and by themselves they aren’t.

Peace is what we all need right now, but the only time words work to offer peace is if the Holy Spirit is present in the moment.

When Jesus offered peace to the disciples, it wasn’t just his words he offered. He was truly offering the tangible gift of peace, the weighty transference of peace above all circumstances and chaos.

In John 20 Jesus appeared to the disciples, appeared through a locked door, twice (Wow!), and offered peace.

“…Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” “…Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” …he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
John 20:19-22 English Standard Version

One of the disciples, Thomas, wasn’t there, and he said he wouldn’t believe unless He saw Jesus for himself.

“Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.””
John 20:26 English Standard Version

There’s more to the story, and I encourage you to read the whole account in John 20. However, I want to point out the offering of peace.

Jesus offered something He knew the disciples needed as they had isolated themselves in a locked building. They needed peace first before they needed protection. They needed peace before receiving the Holy Spirit. Peace is the cornerstone of everything we do as Christians and only God can give it to us.

So, if you are in isolation, which most of us currently are in some form or another, ask the Holy Spirit for peace. He will give it if you ask.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado