Jesus knew what would face all who denied self and followed him. He, of all people, knew an enemy would oppose righteousness and friendship with God. “If the world hates you, keep in mind it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.”
So in this journey full of danger and difficulty, what does Jesus think we need? Some are in storms right now that have no end in sight. You know Jesus has all power to change any situation, but he seems to be sleeping in the boat. You pray, you cry, you look to the heavens for help, but pain, grief, and confusion crash against you. At the end of his life, Jesus knew the disciples were about to experience the worst of times. There was nothing they could do to avoid what was destined to happen. Jesus knew joy would eventually come, but for a while they would be overwhelmed by sorrow. So what did the Savior promise? What does He offer us as we enter periods of darkness? “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.”
Jesus was about to go through his darkest hour. Shortly after encouraging his friends, the Son would sweat blood as he asked his Father for another way. But a perfect Father denied the request. Has anyone faced a trial with more courage and poise than our Savior? Has anyone faced the devil and trampled injustice like the One from Nazareth? The peace Jesus possessed as He went through Hell, he offers us. We are not exempt from sorrow or pain, but we have something the world cannot understand. His peace does not remove the danger, but it gives us courage to face it. The Warrior who defeated Satan prays for us: “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.”
“For he himself is our peace…” This truth sets believers apart. I wish I could avoid the storm altogether, but who can? Jesus says, “Follow Me” and he went through storms. I can, however, let his peace rule my heart. I can talk to him. I can believe him. I can trust.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33