“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." John 14:27 NLT
Those who lived through the 1960s will remember the "flower power" movement. During the height of the Vietnam War, those in the movement embraced non-violent rallies, often wearing flowered clothing and flowers in their hair as a symbol of their protest. By the early 70s, support for
the war waned, and by 1973, with the abolishment of the mandatory draft and the end of direct involvement by the United States, the war and the movement ended.
God's plan for world peace ended with the second generation of humankind when Cain brought a rock crashing down on Abel's head. Since that time, we have struggled with violence and finding peace. Peace with each other and serenity within ourselves. At times we may experience relative calm, but without Christ, there can be no lasting peace.
Jesus left us with a gift, “peace of mind and heart.”. Not the temporary ceasing of conflicts the world occasionally offers but the perfect inner peace of mind and soul. Only by this peace can humankind experience the serenity we so desperately desire and, by its guidance, begin to share with others. This peace is the kernel from which we can offer our neighbors compassion, kindness, and love.
God, we thank you for the perfect peace we find in you. While we may experience times of temporary truce in the world, it is only in you we find lasting peace. Grant us this day tranquility of body and soul; by this peace, may we share it with others to your glory. In Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
PS. Sadly, those who served during Vietnam frequently suffered abuse upon returning home, along with living with the horrors experienced on the battlefield. Many were maimed, some suffered PTSD, and yet others the lasting effects of exposure to Agent Orange. Some of these battled addiction and ended up on our streets. Let's remember to give thanks to all our veterans when called upon serve. Keep them in your prayers that they may experience the lasting peace found in Christ.
