Our Deepest Need
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. John 14:24 (NIV)
ME: Well, another year is checked off. Jesus, I didn’t make any resolutions this year. I think I am going to just take life one day at a time. Last year was such a big year in my life with all kinds of changes. But there is something that I will pray for every day. Peace.
JESUS: Did you know that peace is your deepest need? It is not just a want.
ME: Is that why I feel so uneasy at times?
JESUS: That is part of the reason. I long to pour Myself into your neediness. My abundance and your neediness are a perfect match. The other part is the fact that you have not yet completely learned to trust Me in all situations. You are hung up with trying to fix things and not have conflict or confrontation.
ME: You know I don’t like either of those at all.
JESUS: Yes, but did you know that in confrontation and resolution is found incredible growth.
ME: Isn’t there some other way to grow?
JESUS: Precious child of Mine, just as David did, you must face your giants. I designed you to have no sufficiency of your own.
ME: So, You are saying that we, as humans, cannot fix our world?
JESUS: In the middle of chaos and confusion, I want you to be filled with My very Being, permeated through and through with Peace.
ME: That isn’t even realistic! How can anyone feel peace with world-wide war?
JESUS: Just trust Me. Thank Me for My peaceful Presence, regardless of your feelings. Besides, your feelings are fickle; they come and go.
ME: Once again, this is something I will have to practice. Following You isn’t always easy.
JESUS: Who told you that it was? When your peace has escaped, whisper My Name in loving tenderness.
ME: I will take Your suggestion and pray that it works.
JESUS: My Peace, which lives continually in your spirit, will gradually work its way through your entire being.
ME: And then everything will be okay. Right?
JESUS: No, then you will feel peace regardless of everything else.
Loving Jesus, thank You for being our Peace. You are such a loving Father and so often we forget to call on You when life gets all jumbled and chaotic. Provider of Peace, help us to draw closer in this new year. AMEN.
Photo: Michael Johnston