John 14:27 (NLT)
I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.
One of the last conversations Jesus has with his disciples, he predicts his own death, his betrayal by one of his disciples and Peter’s denial of Him. Then He promises that he is not leaving them alone. He is going away and sending another, the Holy Spirit. He is leaving them with the gift of peace. Of mind and heart and knows the world will never suffice and could never offer the same peace he does.
Do you see what he says next? “So…” The natural outcome of the peace that Jesus promises is to not be troubled or fearful. Does this remind you of anything? Last week we read another passage in Isaiah in which the Lord tells his people, “Comfort…” meaning courage, strength. Again we see how Jesus being Mighty God and Prince of Peace go hand in hand. He is able to do what he sets out to do and that is to save us from sin and bring about reconciliation and restoration — peace.
The Christmas season doesn’t lend itself to being a peaceful time. It seems as though we are even more busy than usual. There are parties, and gifts to be bought, and stockings to stuff, and trees to cut down and decorate. Peace is not the overwhelming feeling of this season. Stress and anxiety are. How can you slow down this week season so that you can enjoy and sit in the peaceful rest that Jesus offers?
Lectio Divina Practice
As you walk through the Lectio Divina today, read the scripture above and meditate on it, allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal himself to you.
Family Moments
Read John 14:27 together. Jesus left us with the gift of the Holy Spirit so that we may experience the gift of peace. What do you turn to for peace? Pray together and ask the Holy Spirit to comfort you. How does knowing Jesus is the true source of peace encourage you to come to Him?