More Peace Please

One of my favorite things to do to relax, besides sitting on the porch, is chilling out in our recliner with my PJ pants and a hot cup of coffee after a long day of teaching and tutoring and churching. It’s so nice to curl up with a warm cup in my hands and be able to just pause for a few minutes and enjoy the moment. The only issue is when my problems become bigger than a cup of coffee and a big, comfy recliner. At some point, a cup of coffee, an extra mile or two, a long drive, or another beef jerky just doesn’t cut it anymore. The peace I used to feel from my routines or hobbies is absent and I’m left searching for more.

Psalm 122 speaks of praying for peace from God. The English dictionary defines “peace” as the absence of disturbance or the end to war; however, I’m afraid this definition is not the true meaning of peace but rather the result of the true definition. Jesus’ presence creates a calming affect that we associate with peace. Jesus is peace. By going into his presence, we can feel a shift in perspective and a light-heartedness that we don’t feel with worldly things. His presence can set things right-side-up and allow us to find joy and thankfulness in our time of suffering.

You might be struggling with what “the presence” is and how to get it. This one is simple: to feel Jesus working in your life and to feel his presence, all you have to do is open your heart and ask him to come. Invite him in just like you would invite a friend into your home. If you ask and nothing happens, keep asking and he will answer. Things might get ugly and you might throw a teensy temper tantrum when he doesn’t answer but he will patiently wait for you to finish and break down walls that guard your heart so that you can hear him.

Please please please invite him to bring you peace. Be a peace keeper and spread it to everyone around you. Your life will take on new meaning and you’ll be able to relax with the confidence that Jesus is walking with you and taking care of your every single need.