Both before the crucifixion and after the resurrection, Jesus shared his peace with the disciples. Then as now, in a sinful world of anger and violence, it is difficult to lead a peaceful life. 

 

THE GOSPEL OF JOHN

14:27 - 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. 

20:19 - … Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you."

20:21 - Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you".

LESSON

We worry about things. We get angry when we don’t get our way. We suffer through injuries and illnesses. We cry over the loss of loved ones. How can anyone live a peaceful life when we have so little control over the broken world that we live in?

But we can, because God wants us to have a life lived to the fullest and that includes being at peace. That’s why He sent his Son, the Prince of Peace. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus said “Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.” We can ask Him to take the cares and worries that burden our lives and by doing so, gives us peace. 

PRAYER

Lord, I come to you and pour out my worries, anxieties, and fears at your feet. I ask for your blessings of peace and strength over my life. Bring peace into my soul that passes all human understanding. Help me not to be afraid when trouble comes my way. Help me trust in you in all things. I joyfully receive your peace. In Jesus’ Name,  Amen.

             

Keyword Crossword

DOWN

• Expecting pain or danger
• Deep caring
• Distress over a lot of things 5 Scared

ACROSS

2 Don’t take

4 State of clam

• Stressed
• Provide at no cost

WORDS: afraid fear give leave love peace troubled worries