By Debra Arredondo
John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you; I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
How many of us really understand that peace is our inheritance? Peace is what Jesus left us. It cannot be taken away from us under any circumstance. But how many of us remember this peace He has left us?
I am a natural worrier. I spend far too much time worrying about things that I have absolutely no control over. Does it stop me from worrying? Not so much. But there are times when I feel I cannot handle one more thing and He speaks to me. Almost like He taps me on the shoulder to remind me, “Woman, don’t you remember what I said the night before I was tortured and crucified? I give you peace right in the midst of trouble, distress, turmoil and heartache. Do not let your heart be troubled or afraid.”
When my brother, Bob, passed away, the family was gathered around his bed in his home. As he slipped away, I was beside myself. How would I ever get over this? It was a selfish thought, I guess, because I wasn’t fearful of where Bob was going; I knew. But I was afraid for myself. How would I go back to living as I had before he left me? Who would be there for me? Who would love me?
That day, I felt Jesus reminding me again. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; do not be afraid.” I do not have to be afraid about never being with Bob again; I will. Nor do I have to worry about the health of my family, the safety of my family, or any of the other many things I worry about daily. He promised me peace. I just have to remember to accept it.
Prayer: Father, you have made me rich. Thank you for this gift of peace. Thank You for whatever I am going through regardless of how difficult it is. Help me to always remember to accept your peace, that it might free my mind of worry and fear.