On the night before his death, Jesus he had a farewell talk with the disciples at the conclusion of the Last Supper. He predicted Peter denying him three times, he washed the disciple’s feet, and Judas had left. Talking about his coming death was no surprise considering the way he had stirred things up with the religious establishment. Naturally, the conversation was interrupted by the anxious questions of his disciples. What will happen to us once you are gone?
Like any one of us, the disciples were agonizing over what seemed like uncontrollable events. They were certainly filled with fear and apprehension as they imagined terrorizing incidents.
Jesus tells them God will send The Comforter who will help them remember what he has taught them. Then Jesus gives them a gift: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you..."
According to Wesley's notes this verse doesn’t mean don't worry or be troubled. It means have faith, hold onto, rely on, keep going and believing.
It seems to me that when our souls are in turmoil because of out of control events, is the time we are really looking for a deep, lasting inner peace of mind and heart. That is the time to get grounded in Scripture and prayer to focus on Jesus' gift of the peace he gives.
I have definite soul-angst about the covid-19 pandemic. How long will it continue? How vulnerable are we even though we may take precautions?
The only way I can see finding inner peace is through Jesus’ gift: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.
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