by Pastor Larry Sorrells, Rockville, Trinity UMC

As we enter into the second week of the Advent season, our focus is upon peace.

The question was once asked, “If you could choose what you want most in life, what would you ask for?” The most common answer was “Peace.”

People seek peace in their marriages, families, workplaces, country, and the world. Our country has some of the world’s best medical and psychological treatment centers, some of the finest educational institutions, and worldwide communication abilities. Yet, even with all of these things, most people do not possess true inner peace. Life contains conflict, broken marriages, split families, hatred, rebellion, financial anxiety, and a country filled with turmoil.

The world will offer you temporary peace by escaping problems through drugs, alcohol, inappropriate relationships, and constant entertainment. People look for peace through all forms of pleasure and self-satisfaction. Many define peace as the absence of trouble. Yet, no one can escape life’s difficulties and problems for long.  The world has never held the answer to true peace.

You can choose to have real peace. True peace doesn’t come from man but God. This peace is the fruit of the Holy Spirit spoken of in Galatians 5:22.

This peace means to be in harmony with God, to be bound, joined, and woven together with God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. It also means to be assured, confident, and secure in the loving care of God. There is a consciousness and a sure trust God will provide, guide, strengthen, sustain, encourage, deliver, and save all those who seek Him. This peace comes from receiving and following Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord and from knowledge and love for God’s Word.

The Apostle Paul knew this peace. It is true that Paul went through great suffering because of his love for the Lord, his love for God’s truth and his commitment to the commission given to him by Jesus Christ. Yet in spite of all this, his heart was kept in perfect peace.

He had been imprisoned, stoned, left for dead and beaten by the Romans, and yet he said in Romans 8: 28, “We know that God works all things together for good for the ones who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose.” Notice the conditions of knowing God’s peace: 1) Love God, and 2) Be called according to His purpose.

Most people reject God’s peace because they choose their own selfishness and their desire for worldly pleasures. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give you.” Christ’s inner peace is offered to all who know Him, regardless of their life circumstances.

In these days of uncertainty and distress, Christ offers you peace, no matter your troubles. He is the Giver of eternal life and the Prince of Peace! Make the choice to seek Him. Blessings.