On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1919, the armistice treaty was signed ending World War I. It was the end of the Great War to end all wars. We all know how that turned out, even though the commemoration of the signing of that treaty is still a day of celebration in many countries. Peace in this world is temporary, fleeting and illusive. Even the weather on a peaceful day is often just the lull before another storm rolls in.
When I was a boy, one of my favorite songs was Peace in the Valley. Based on prophesies from the Old Testament about heaven, it describes a place of perfect peace where “the bear will be gentle and the wolf will be tame and the lion shall lay down by the lamb” and “the beast from the wild will be led by a child”. The key to entering that place of eternal peace is this; “I’ll be changed from this creature that I am”. Our very nature is far from peaceful and must change. Is it even possible for us to find peace this side of the gates of heaven? The surprising answer to that question is yes!
When the angels proclaimed the birth of Jesus to the shepherds in the field, they sang; “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” (Luke 2:14) The peace Jesus brought into the world is not a period of cease fire or a treaty between nations. It isn’t even a break in the weather. It is an inner peace that comes to each of us through a personal relationship with God. It is not dependent on our surroundings or situation. It is peace that can exist even in the middle of a battle or in the midst of the worst storm we face in life. Jesus described it to his disciples like this; “I am leaving you with a gift – peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give.” (John 14:27) So many times over the years I have felt His peace come over me in some of my worst trials. It is beyond comprehension and along with His mercy and grace it is another gift from God that I do not deserve and could never repay.
I want to leave you with this blessing from the Apostle Paul, “May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.” (2 Corinthians 1:2)