In 1969 John Lennon and his newlywed wife, Yoko Ono, stayed in bed 8 days in a Montreal hotel interviewing with reporters, receiving friends, and singing: “All we are saying… is give peace a chance.” When asked if they thought their ‘peace protest’ would make a difference, John invited anyone who had a better idea to try it out. One of the friends at the recording of the song was Timothy Leary, a psychologist who promoted the use of psychedelic drugs like LSD. Leary’s idea for peace was captured in his famous phrase: “Turn on, tune in, drop out.” Many young people followed such thinking during the 60′s and 70′s, but in the battle of ideas, the most important thing is ‘truth.’
So what is the truth about peace? God knew the only way for there to be ‘peace on earth’ was for man to have peace with him. So the Son was sent, not to condemn but to save. Immanuel came to our world and Jesus became the Gate of peace. Any idea that does not lead to this truth will be short-lived. John Lennon was murdered in 1980 outside the New York City building in which he lived. Timothy Leary died of cancer in 1995 after exploring possibilities of freezing his body for a future resurrection. He finally decided to be cremated and some of his ashes were carried into outer space. Though they spoke and sang about peace, these voices could not deliver. Jesus also died… but he did rise from the dead with true peace as a gift for those who put their faith in him.
“The Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 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.” (Jn 14:26-27) Shortly after these words were spoken the disciples faced pure chaos. One hanged himself, one denied he even knew Jesus, and all deserted him. But after God’s plan was fulfilled: “Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you!’… Again Jesus said, ‘Peace be with you!’… And he breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.’… A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you!… Stop doubting and believe.’” (see John 20:19-29)
For peace to have a chance in my life I must welcome Jesus’ beautiful greeting: “Peace be with you!” For peace to have a chance in my life I must also receive the Holy Spirit. The Counselor reminds us of God’s ways and teaches us to walk with the Lord. For peace to have a chance in my life I must also obey Jesus’ words – a negative command and a positive one: “Stop doubting and believe.” Jesus faced everything we face, but he rested in his Father who he knew to be peace. The enemy wants to steal peace from the children of God, but Jesus promises to be with us… and he is peace.
“You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me. 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 16:32-33
Happy New Year!!!