Upheld In Afternoon Peace

Calm Waters

With so much turmoil and uncertainty in our world today, it is a good thing to seek places of peace to rest our souls. Today I strolled, as I often do on a Sunday afternoon, along the Spokane River. It’s close to home and I love it. The same walk is so totally different with every season.

Today, the water was calm, often reflecting its surroundings.

 

 

 

Unconcern Before Chaos

At one place, where rocks signaled the beginning of rapids, a flock of geese rested. The boulders jutted out of the water and the birds chose this time to sit and rest. They were everywhere. Now and then they would call to each other, or ruffle their feathers, but this was a place of rest.

I thought it curious that the geese would rest just where the calm, clear water suddenly gave way to rushing chaos. They did not seem to be a bit concerned.

Perhaps the birds know the secret of relaxing in their Creator. Perhaps better than we do as worried humans. There might be things we can learn from birds who perch in peace before uproar.

Guarantees

Jesus assured us that He would look out for us. Our trust in Him would be most reflective of His trust in Father God. He guaranteed some things to us.

He assured us that He would never leave us nor forsake us. He is always available to us. (Hebrews 13:5)

He warned us ahead of time what to expect in this life. He even gave us a book (Revelation) so we can track it. We don’t need to be taken by surprise. (John 14:29)

He said He would send us the Counselor, the Holy Spirit. He would teach us and remind us of all Jesus told us. (John 14:26)

He said that He would leave His peace with us. But it would not be peace in a worldly sense. He said we would have trouble in the world. But the peace He sends puts our hearts to rest. (John 14:27)

Jesus is here. He said not to let our hearts be troubled, dismayed, or afraid. He declares that He has overcome the evil one. (John 14:30) He has risen from the dead to prove it!

He promises to return for us. (John 14:28)

Afternoon Peace

So, while the world still rages and seems to engulf all that is good, we can take time to reflect in peace the Savior who loves and rescues us.

 

“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. You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you’” (John 14:27-28 NIV).