"Peace be with you."
I heard these words of Jesus three times in the Gospel reading from John, Chapter 20 on Sunday morning. Jesus gives this greeting to his disciples when he appears to them so they can see and know he has risen from dead. Although I have heard and read this chapter before, the words have stayed with me over the past days.
"Peace be with you."
It's God's peace that I would like to feel and know right now, a peace that God is in control of the situations in our world, and He protects us and knows the struggles of His people.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your Hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
Peace is a greeting from God, to comfort and reassure us, to remind us we are His children, but to also remind us that we live in a sinful world.
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." John 16:33
Peace reminds us of His promises, that through Christ's death and resurrection, we are reconciled with God.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. John 14:27
Peace be with you as you go about your day and serve God in all that you do.
Benediction
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:16
"Peace be with you."
-Ellen Pratt, School Ministries Staff Assistant