11-07-20

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
November 7, 2020
Scripture: John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.

Thought for the Day: Jesus spoke of this peace he was leaving, a peace he was giving to his disciples. It’s interesting how Jesus spoke of giving, but not as the world would give. How does the world give? As I reflect on that question, I believe the world gives with strings attached. There is always fine print in the contract, and a lot of expectations of receiving something in return. If the world suggests it is giving peace, but that worldly peace comes with a lot of baggage, is that really going to offer any sense of genuine peace? It sounds more anxiety producing. When Jesus gave, he was not expecting anything in return. He gave as one who is full of grace, and he continues to give with grace. When we are on the receiving end of a gift given in grace there is a desire to respond in gratitude, yet the gift itself never required it. That’s the kind of gift that actually can produce peace.

Prayer: Let me soak in your gift of peace, Merciful God, a gift freely given. As I receive it and embrace it, I believe I can also live it. May it be so! Amen.

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