It's All About the Peace

Christmas 1985.

Wendell and I had decided to take our two little boys to Disneyland for our “gift” that year. I clearly remember thinking, that because it was Christmas Day, everyone would be home with their families. I was clearly wrong! Instead, EVERYONE was there with their families!

Turns out, Christmas is one of the busiest days at Disneyland! And, we were inside the grounds of Disneyland for 17 hours straight! We walked in at 8am Christmas Day 1985 and walked out at 1 o’clock the next morning. (Did I mention I was 5 months pregnant with my daughter?) We were dragging, but memories were made, fun was had alongside with frustration, and my boys still talk about it to this day.

However…

They do not have the same memories I have. I remember rude people jostling for position. I remember standing in line for something to eat and people trying to get in front of me. I remember people stepping on my heals, and lots of sighs of frustration. But memories were made and that was my goal after all; minus the thousands and thousands of other people that also had the same goal. We were literally elbow-to-elbow and heel-to-toe with other human beings all day!

Something my friend Bob sent via text to his group this morning caused me to recall that day so many years ago:

“Human nature is ever struggling for expression, ready for contest; but he who learns of Christ is emptied of self, of pride, of love of supremacy, and there is silence in the soul. Self is yielded to the disposal of the Holy Spirit. Then we are not anxious to have of highest place. We have no ambition to crowd and elbow ourselves into notice; but we feel that our highest place is at the feet of our Saviour. We look to Jesus, waiting for His hand to lead, listening for His voice to guide.—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 14, 15 JNN 357.4”

Isn’t that so very true?! Human nature constantly yearns for expression. We are always prepared for competition; we want to be first! However, if we turn to Jesus with a willingness to be changed, Christ can cause us to undergo a transformation that will blow our mind and the minds of those around us.

With Jesus in the picture, we shed our self-interest, pride, and desire for control, and instead experience a cool calm within.

John 14:27 says: "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." ESV

This verse emphasizes the distinctiveness of the peace that Jesus offers, one that surpasses the world's understanding and brings a sense of calmness and assurance to those who follow Him and His teachings.

If we willingly surrender ourselves to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, our yearning for the highest position diminishes. We have a peace that the world does not get! That is to say, does not understand.

The Apostle Paul wrote, "and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7 NKJV

It surpasses all understanding! Suddenly there is no urge to push forward or seek attention; instead, we recognize our greatest fulfillment lies in being close to our Redeemer; instead of being close to the front of the line.

It makes me think of the verse from Matthew 20: “So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen.” Matthew 20:16 NKJV

Next time I write it will be a brand new year. As we head toward the finish line of 2023, keep your focus on Jesus; anticipate His guidance; listen for His direction. Make this your New Year’s Resolution!

"I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." John 16:33 ESV

by Jeanette Stark – Friday, December 29, 2023