John 14:27 (CEB)

[Jesus said,] “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give you. I give to you not as the world gives. Don’t be troubled or afraid.”


Reflection

For me, John 14 is the one chapter that says it all. First, it recalls how Jesus taught that there is plenty of room for all in God’s kingdom. Second, this chapter also announces that the Advocate (the Holy Spirit) will come to be with us. Finally, it records Jesus’ assurance that the peace God gives and leaves for us will always be there. “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give you.”

So much of living in this world means that there are strings attached. We must give something to get something, or give something to keep something else. If you don’t pay the money, you can’t keep your… house, car, lifestyle, etc. But the main point of John 14:27 in particular is that God’s love provides an endless peace that is always with us. Shown through Jesus’ love, God’s peace is the most special gift. This peace and love is not given as the world gives – with strings attached.

Through this verse, we know that no one is coming to take away our peace and love – even if it is not returned in each and every way. There are no strings attached. The peace of Jesus Christ is grounded in God’s love. It gives the peace that surpasses all understanding. It is timeless, endless and forever. So don’t let your heart be troubled or afraid. Whatever worry or fear that we have that grips us or holds us back, we don’t have to hold that fear by ourselves. God’s got this.

By Barbara Carlson


For Pondering & Prayer

Living life for Jesus Christ provides peace. That special gift is the greatest love of all and is given with no strings attached. Yet because we are now aware, we want to live our lives for Christ’s mission in the world. Read over all of John 14. Which part helps you feel especially grounded and loved today? Which verse do you need to repeat throughout the day? Which verse calls you to do God’s work in the world?

Prayer: May the peace of Jesus Christ be with me today. Amen.