“O God, do not keep silent; do not hold your peace or be still, O God!  Even now your enemies are in tumult; those who hate you have raised their heads.”  Psalm 83:1-2

“And the peace God which passes all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."  Philippians 4:7

This has been a week of rejoicing as families were reunited, of cautious hope that at least one war might end.   But an end to war may not bring peace to hungry families returning to rubble that was once home, or to some who have endured the fatigue and gore of battle.

Paul is speaking of a different peace.  The peace of God does not mean we will never know fear or personal discomfort.  Jesus, his name called Prince of Peace by the prophet Isaiah, was viewed as a troublemaker by the authorities, arrested and executed as such.  Our Prince of Peace arose from death, went to his followers in their confusion and fear, and said “Peace be unto you.”  Then they went on to live as Jesus had lived, stirring up people, were persecuted and died.  Paul, one of their persecutors, himself persecuted when he became a believer in Jesus, still went on to write words of a peace that passes understanding.

We will go on living with war as long as greed and lust for power endure.  We will go on praying for peace – and justice – between nations and peoples.  And we will pray for the peace that Paul is speaking of, that passes understanding, which guards our hearts and minds, and keeps us close to God, whatever sickness or grief or fear we may be battling. 

Dear God, We pray for families that are separated by war and violence, many displaced from their homes; for those suffering broken relationships.  Comfort and calm us.  “Come and fill us with your peace.  You alone are holy.”   Amen

Verla Olson

Ministries
Teaching Mission Party