Peace
On a casual afternoon, I bumped into a sister while walking. She was surprised to see me. As usual, my greeting was: “How have you been lately?” She sighed and answered, “This is a question people have been asking me a lot lately. Should I be honest?” I responded, “If you feel comfortable sharing, I’m here to listen.”
This interaction made me reflect on how a simple greeting can bring tension for those who are struggling. Honestly, I wasn’t prepared for her question: “Should I be honest?” I was reminded of how Paul, in his letters, greeted his readers with grace and peace from our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. What people need in difficult times is grace and peace from the Divine, not just from us.
Some people struggle with toxic workplaces. Others face difficult relationships or family issues. Even though they pray, finding someone to listen to them can be a challenge.
I began to question how to greet people with more care and courtesy. Should I say “shalom” or “peace be with you” instead?
Why is peace important for believers in Christ?
- Matthew 5:9 states, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
- Isaiah 26:3 says, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.”
- Psalm 4:8 declares, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”
These three verses remind us that peace signifies our identity, trust, and hope in the Lord.
Matthew 8:23-27 recounts how the disciples encountered a storm while Jesus was asleep. The truth was He calmed the storm, showing us that even in tumultuous times, we can rely on Him. In those days, there were no weather forecasts to warn people of impending storms. Even today, while forecasts exist, the weather can still change unexpectedly. The disciples, who were fishermen, thought they could handle the storm on their own, but they realized they needed Jesus. Remarkably, He calmed the storm.
Brothers and Sisters,
What does the story of Jesus calming the storm teach us?
- Do not rely solely on your own strength; include Jesus in your life always.
- Even when we forget about Jesus, He will still appear and save us.
- Acknowledge Him at all times.
If I meet this sister again, I would greet her with “shalom” or “peace be with you” instead of “how are you?” I truly hope that anyone reading this reflection may find strength and hope in the Lord.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all, now and forevermore. Amen.
To God be the glory!