For the love of Pete can this just be over!? Can you feel the anticipated collective sigh of relief in the air? One sentiment unites us amidst the division: we are all ready for this election season to end. We are weary of the noise — the barrage of texts, overflowing mailboxes, and endless news chatter. The billboards and yard signs? We’re ready to replace them with Christmas lights and festive inflatables.
In a world filled with chaos, it’s easy to forget where true peace lies. In John 14:27, Jesus promises, “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.”
What can we learn about the peace Jesus offers? It is supernatural, unique, inclusive, and free. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it’s a profound calm that surpasses understanding. It’s the peace Jesus exhibited while sleeping on the boat amidst a storm. It’s the unwavering calm He showed on the cross.
This peace is unlike any other. We can search everywhere — bank statements, our homes, even the Oval Office — but nothing compares to the peace of Christ that is offered to all. Regardless of race, religion, political stance, age, or gender, Jesus died to give every single person His perfect peace. It’s a gift that cannot be earned or purchased; He has already secured it for us.
So, I invite you to take a moment to center yourself. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and picture Jesus. His face is glowing with tenderness as He extends arms toward you, offering His peace as a precious gift. As you reach for it, you find it so vast that you cannot hold on to things you’ve been carrying.
Pause a moment here. Recognize that your arms cannot simultaneously hold burdens and His peace. What do you need to drop at the feet of Jesus in order to create space and embrace the all-consuming gift of peace He is offering?
May we all take a cleansing sigh of relief, and rest assured that no matter who sits in the Oval Office, that person will be there only temporarily. Our peace is found with an eternal God, permanently seated on His throne.
Jesus, You are our Prince of Peace, a title You paid the ultimate price to proclaim. May we never take that lightly. Help us in the coming days, no matter what happens around us personally and nationally, to embrace Your gift of peace. Be our calm. Ease our troubled hearts and replace our fears with more of You. Fill us with Your peace until it flows through us for the world to see. No matter who takes political seats around us, help us to choose kindness and love, humility and resolve. We praise You for Your consistent sovereignty and Your perfect peace. Amen.
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