A Chance for Real Peace

A Chance for Real Peace

“…All we are saying is give peace a chance All we are saying is give peace a chance” -- John Lennon

During 1969, John Lennon released the song, “Give Peace A Chance” as a protest song against the Viet Nam War. There were many songs written during this period of American History in response to war, but this is easily one of the most recognizable. The sixties were really a time when communism reached its apex. Today, the Berlin Wall is just a memory, The Soviet Union, no longer a world power, doesn't even exist and China no longer sees itself as a communist empire. In spite of this, the world remains engaged in warfare. Africa, India, the Middle East, it seems as if no matter the time of day, some armed conflict is occurring. Even in America, there is something called an ideological war taking place between political parties, religious groups and other philosophies. The world’s view of peace is far different than God's. We easily see the opposition, our human enemy, but we fail to see how we oppose God. Though Lennon sang about peace, he railed against everything which he opposed; even God. With all the warring taking place, does anyone really understand what peace is? Does humanity want a chance for real peace? We think of peace as a state of tranquility and quietness. Peace to us is harmony in relationships; it is an agreement to end hostilities. That kind of peace involves two opposing sides. Spiritual peace is totally different. It is something beyond my reach. No ability on my part can possibility attain it. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.” (John 14:27, NIV) When Christ was about to leave the world he made his will. His soul he committed to his Father; his body he bequeathed to Joseph, to be decently interred; his clothes fell to the soldiers; his mother he left to the care of John: but what should he leave to his poor disciples that had left all for him? Silver and gold he had none; but he left them that which was infinitely better, his peace. “I not only give you a title to it, but put you in possession of it.’’ He did not part in anger, but in love; for this was his farewell… as a dying father leaves portions to his children… Peace is put for all good, and Christ has left us all needful good, all that is really and truly good, as all the purchased promised good. Peace is put for reconciliation and love; the peace bequeathed is peace with God, peace with one another; peace in our own bosoms seems to be especially meant; a tranquility of mind arising from a sense of our justification before God. (Matthew Henry Commentary) The Greek word for peace, eirēnē (ā-rā'-nā) means, the tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and content with its earthly lot. Security, safety, prosperity, felicity (because peace and harmony make and keep things safe and prosperous). Who among us is capable of negotiating peace with the Everlasting God? As a species, humanity has no capability of initiating peace with God! The real war has ended though. In that war, Christ died so that all might live. All humanity was on the wrong side of righteousness; none stood right with God. But God revealed His plan…a way that maintained His holiness, integrity and word, while providing humanity with the way of peace. Peace with God. I am no longer a prisoner, held captive by sin. When Christ died on the cross, He made the way accessible for me to stand before the throne of grace. I myself have access to the Holy of Holies, I have peace with God. Christ has given me the chance for real peace. written by MTJ

A Note of Thanks: I would just like to say that I appreciate each of you who visit My Thought-filled Journey. Taking time out of your schedule to read a post on this blog is encouraging to me. Many of those who visit, will from time to time leave a comment. Whether a comment is left is not important. What is important, is that you came. I do hope you find encouragement and inspiration in these words. Please know I will pray with you regarding any circumstance you may be facing. Feel free to write me to say "Hello", request prayer, or share what God is doing in your life. I have not said it enough, but thank you for the light of Chist in your life which illuminates the way for us all.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).