The Gift of Peace

Peace: we hear about this topic from a young age, whether from the Bible or from a history class. I want to investigate what it means in the Bible and as a fruit of the Spirit.

Peace looks different in everyone’s eyes, but true peace comes from God, so let’s dive into what it means as an aspect of Christianity.

The fruit of the Spirit includes multiple items, as listed in Galatians 5:22-23: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” When looking at peace as a part of the fruit, it becomes clear how it works well with other pieces. Acting kind and gentle tends to display peace, and an atmosphere of peace conveys joy to those around us. Everyone longs for peace, and by displaying the fruit of the Spirit, peace spreads to others.

Look at peace as separate from the fruit, more than simply a gift from God. In Ephesians 2:14-15, Paul talks about Jesus being peace and how he makes peace: “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside his flesh in the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of two, thus making peace.” Jesus came down from heaven and died for the sins of the world so peace might exit; however, some seem to struggle in choosing to accept the gift.

Though God gave the gift of peace, which He offers in times of need, worldly ways tend to make it seem difficult to achieve. Paul mentions praying for peace in Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your mind in Christ Jesus.” I personally struggle with the practice of praying for peace; even asking for help feels difficult, but God made peace for everyone. God gives all of us peace if asked for, and Paul talks about practicing asking for it and finding it with you. Philippians 4:9 shows this: “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me-put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

God uses peace to spread His word and guide us to the path that we should take. Isaiah 55:12 mentions how His creations rejoice when they see someone lead by peace: “You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and the trees of the field will clap their hands.” Peace, a strong part of a believer, often goes overlooked. We hear about God’s children spreading peace wherever they go. Matthew 5:9 shows this: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” This verse speaks to me as someone who avoids conflict and tries to find peace in every situation. It feels like God confirms that I am doing His will by spreading peace.

The topic of peace varies in so many ways depending on one’s point of view. The memories of talking about peace in history fail to reflect the definition of peace to me. Through my eyes, the definition of peace includes a part of Christianity and a gift from God.

Written by Belle

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Shalom

Optimistic lyrics, “Do you remember the 21st night of September? Love was changing the minds of pretenders while chasing the clouds away,” from Earth, Wind, and Fire’s song September quickly come to mind when thinking of Peace Day. Coincidentally, Peace Day is celebrated annually on September 21st, and its message echoes the band’s emphasis on love conquering the damaging behaviors and thoughts we constantly have. Writers for the International Day of Peace’s official website state that the holiday was “established in 1981 by [a] unanimous United Nations resolution [and] provides a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to [p]eace above all differences and to contribute to building a Culture of Peace.” However, history has proven that peace is hardly celebrated, perhaps because it is rarely truly attained. Michelle Ruoff, a writer for Live 365 reports that the most popular holidays worldwide celebrate food, independence, light, love, saints, death, and resurrection. None of them commemorate peace. 

For many Americans, the entire month of September causes a whirlwind of emotions. Many developing students across the nation have returned to school to begin the next grade level. On the 7th, most take a day off or attend a barbeque to acknowledge all of their hard work on Labor Day. World Suicide Prevention Day on the 10th is used to honor those who have been affected by suicide or suicide attempts through suicidal behavior education, global cycling events, and most commonly, lighting a candle near a windowsill to show support or honor a loved one. Ten days before Peace Day, during Patriot Day, still sensitive Americans acknowledge the terrorist attack on U.S soil, 9/11/2001, that bruised the heart of the nation almost twenty years ago. The history, holidays, and traditions held in this month alone seem to encourage chaos. 

In May 2020, as I wrote this blog, the whole world was engulfed in chaos and lacked peace because of COVID19. At this time, many individuals were overwhelmed by fear-mongering, selfishness, job-insecurity, risk of infection from a deadly disease, death itself, and many other peace-stealing circumstances. Bombarded by 24-hour news cycles, isolation from people one normally sees every day, or fear that one may be assaulted or killed for asking others to abide by safety regulations can drive away peace in anyone. 

However, seeking peace is the remedy for this extremely stressful time. In order to acquire peace, one must first understand it. Many dictionaries and thesauri emphasize tranquility, calmness, or the absence of war. After further study, the word tranquility describes one thing being free from interruption or disturbance of another. Endless notification pings, breaking news, and even new thoughts prevent us from living a distraction-free life. Calm most often refers to stillness, especially in harsh weather. Alfred Nobel’s final will and testament declared that the Nobel Peace Prize was to be awarded “to the person who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity between the nations and the abolition or reduction of standing armies and the formation and spreading of peace congresses”( “History”). Many brilliant leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr., Mahatma Gandhi, and John F. Kennedy have lost their lives seeking it. Perhaps most people never possess peace because they have unrealistic ideas of what it is. 

According to the Living Word, peace, or shalom, is an invaluable gift from God, not a prize for the conquering. In fact, in John 14:27, Jesus admits that true peace cannot be obtained through man but through Christ alone, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid”(ESV). Another important theme in this verse is that Jesus consoles God’s children and tells them not to fear.

Peace is not the absence of agitation or the void of violence, it is a precious present from the Lord during the worst times.

In one’s own experience, peace comes in the midnight hour, when the heart and brain sleep. Sometimes peace is the Son that shines after one’s eyes cloud and make storms of tears. Finally, peace, when coupled with faith, provides strength to overcome all obstacles. 

Written by Ashley

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Sources

Anonymous.(n.d.) History. Nobel Peace Prize.org. Retrieved from  https://www.nobel 

peaceprize.org/History. 

Anonymous.(n.d.) What is the International Day of Peace? International Day of Peace.org. Retrieved from https://internationaldayofpeace.org/

Ruoff, Michelle.(28 Feb.2020). Top 15 Most Celebrated Holidays in the World. Live 365. 

Retrieved from https://live365.com/blog/top-15-most-celebrated-holidays-around-the-world/

Searching for Peace

As Christmas rapidly approaches, there are so many things that vie for our attention. From Christmas parties, gift exchanges, concerts, and events, there is no shortage of festivities to participate in. Around every turn, there are strings of lights, boughs of holly and greenery, and a palpable joy in the air. Yet, amidst such a busy and sometimes distracting season, it can be difficult to find time for the peace that we all crave.

Silent Night, Holy Night

I often try to find a time to sit in the quiet and think about the Christmas story so many of us know by heart. I think about the various parts of the story that make it almost unbelievable: the three wise men who sought the true King and traveled miles upon miles following only a star to find him, the shepherds who were merely watching their sheep and were suddenly met by a host of angels singing and proclaiming the birth of the Christ, and the humble girl who carried and gave birth to a baby who would change the course of the world forever.

“You’re the one I want to be with, you’re the reason that I came, And you’ll find me in the stillness as I’m whispering your name” – Author Unknown

All Is Calm, All Is Bright

The Savior entered the world in a lowly stable and slept upon a bed of hay amidst farm animals. He could have come down to earth on a white stallion with trumpets and choirs announcing his arrival, but he chose to come humbly, quietly, and peacefully in the form of a little baby. It is amazing to me how this was God’s plan from the very beginning of creation, and he intentionally made a way for us to have a relationship with him.

I think we crave peace today because there is so much noise around us. From movies, TV shows, music, activities, friends, and family, it is easy for there to be constant sound. Internally, we desire moments to be still, not to worry or be anxious, and be present. When we silence the noise around us by going in a quiet room and turning off electronics, or by sitting in a car in a serene area, it allows the Lord to speak truth into our lives. There is nothing that compares to the Lord’s peace. When we ask for it, He will grant us an otherworldly sense of calm and reassurance.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

This Christmas, I want to encourage everyone to intentionally make time to reflect on God’s sovereignty and sit in His peace. Seek Christ the way the wise men did so many years ago, and be at peace, friend, God has it – all of it.

Written by Amanda

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Outside My Window

I sat up straight, unsure of what had awakened me. Everything in the room was the same. The desk was still in the corner, the nightstand was still next to my bed, my bed was standing by the door, right across from the enormous window and next to my roommate’s. However, something was different. I couldn’t put my finger on it, but something had changed. I was sure of it.

Being the curious person that I am, I crawled out of bed and stumbled around the room, trying not to wake up my roommate who was curled under her pile of blankets. I stopped walking and rapidly shook my head, trying to wake up. I felt a strange awe and wonder that I had never felt before. I just knew someone was watching me, but, for some reason, I was not scared. In fact, I felt something I had not felt in a long time: completely and utter tranquility. I swirled around and looked out my window, staring straight into the large, round, white moon. I surveyed the street; nothing moved. In the peaceful silence, I merely stared; there was nothing more I could do. I could not quite explain it, but as soon as I saw the street outside my window, I knew nothing would ever be the same again. I snuggled peacefully in my warm bed, unsure of what tomorrow might bring.

* * * * *

I was awakened by the sound of our opening door. My roommate was coming in from her morning run. That could mean only one thing: I was late for class. I jumped out of bed, startling my roommate.

“Shouldn’t you be gone?”

“Yeah, yeah. I… had an unusual night. Did you notice anything strange outside? Anything… different?”

“Yeah! You didn’t run past me, mumbling that you were late for class! You’d better hurry, girl! Your class starts in five minutes!”

As I threw on my clothes and grabbed my books, I kept glancing out the window. It looked normal: the trees waved in the breeze, the ducks dipped their heads in the rippling pond down the hill, and…

“Do you feel that?” I felt that strange wonder again. While it was comforting, I had no idea what it was. I felt safe and without worry, like all my cares could be taken away if only I were to be able to grasp whatever was giving me this feeling.

My roommate turned around and studied me. “I don’t feel anything. Are you okay?”

I looked at her and back at the window. What had I felt? Was I really okay?

“Yeah, I was just messing with ya. I don’t think I am completely awake yet. See ya later.” I hesitantly walked out the door. Was I losing my mind?

I rushed into class just as Professor Write was handing out one of her infamous quizzes. She looked at me with her chastising eyes, and I met them with the most apologetic expression I could conjure. I couldn’t get my mind off of what I had felt last night and this morning. But what had I felt?

I whipped through the quiz, as always. I don’t know what my fellow classmates feared in these assessments, but I loved the chance for easy points.

Still, I could not get my mind off that… whatever it was… outside my window.

I leaned over to Melissa, my faithful study companion, and asked, “Did you feel anything different this morning… or last night?”

She looked at me, questioningly, but I could tell she knew what I was talking about. A flood of relief swept over me; I was not insane. But that relief was immediately replaced with curiosity.

Melissa leaned over to me and whispered, “I’ll tell you after class.”

After a rather interesting lecture, I ran to catch up to Melissa in the lobby. “So…?”

“What do you think you felt?”

“Whatever it was, it made me feel a sense of, something good and right, like I had never felt before. But, it still made me feel rather uneasy. I really can’t explain it.”

“Well, I believe in an omnipresent God.”

“Oh, please, not that again.”

“Please, just hear me out. I believe He is always watching over us, His presence is not something to fear. He loves you more than you can ever know, so much He died on the cross for you.”

As she spoke, I saw how passionate she was about this. I thought about what had happened, glancing around the room to avoid her gaze. I didn’t want to… but…

“Could you maybe tell me more about this?” I finally conceded.

She smiled, and I knew my life would never be the same.

Written by Michelle

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Supernatural Sleep

Sleep is an idea that’s never wandered far from my heart. Just to paint a picture of how much I’ve always enjoyed sleep, my mom says that when I was little she used to lose track of me for entire afternoons at a time. She would look all over the house, worried sick, and finally find that I’d just been asleep in my bed the entire time. Lately, I haven’t been able to sleep. For whatever reason, my heart has begun racing every Saturday night, like it’s excited about something I don’t know about. I’ve been looking all over, asking everyone I know for tips on how to relax before bedtime and get a good night’s rest. What I found, instead of direct information on relaxation and how to get to sleep, were fundamental ideas of how I should think of sleep in general.  This valuable, new knowledge of what sleep is has changed my sleeping habits radically. Now that I understand what my sleep means to me, relaxation and falling asleep come naturally once again.

I know I perform better during the day if I’ve had a solid, restful seven to nine hours of sleep the night before. The days after I’ve had a good night’s sleep are always the easiest for me to have a positive outlook and attitude in everything I do. It’s easy for me to be especially nice to the people around me on days when I feel rested. Knowing that days are easier to tackle when I’m rested makes it all the more stressful for me when I can’t sleep. I lay in bed, awake, worrying that I’ll be exhausted and more easily prone to anger the next day; it’s miserable because I know that sleep is of the utmost importance for me.

I have learned that tomorrow’s day actually begins at tonight’s sunset. What I mean is that, by getting a good night’s sleep tonight, I will be ready to run with the day tomorrow. Thinking of sleep as the end of my day made it extremely easy for me to write it off as the bottom of my priority list. It became less important to me than almost every other task. Sleep didn’t even register on my mental to-do list until I was finished with homework and other obligations, and it was already time for me to get ready for bed. Knowing that sleep is important enough to be the key to an easy day brings it to the forefront of my mind. Lately, I wake up in the morning feeling victorious, like I’ve already accomplished a huge feat by sleeping well through the night. Let me just say that feeling triumphant every morning definitely affects my entire attitude throughout every day.

After discussing the subject of sleep with my dad and my brother, I realize that sleep is a vital time when I encounter God. God often communicates with me in my dreams.  I can remember vivid dreams I’ve had in the past that have given me answers to questions I’d been asking myself while awake. I also know now that being at peace is an essential part of falling asleep and staying asleep through the night, since I’ve experienced a  lack of sleep caused by stress and excitement first-hand. Expecting to encounter God in my sleep makes it easy for me to remember that He has already provided me with the fruit of the Spirit, including the peace I need to relax at night before falling asleep (Galatians 5:22-23).

The random excitement I’ve been feeling on Saturday nights makes me think of that scene in The Little Mermaid where Ariel watches Prince Eric on the beach and realizes that somewhere, somehow, circumstances are being lined up for her dreams to come true. Until I find out exactly what circumstances are being lined up for my dreams to come true, I need to sleep at night. After much searching and asking everyone I know for answers, I think I’ve finally found some ideas about ways to sleep that work for me. Understanding what sleep means to me and how it affects me every day has been the key in finally getting the rest I’ve needed.

Written by Becca

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http://colourmeanna-com.cloud.hosting-toolkit.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/garfield_free_sleep.jpg?w=550

https://www.pinterest.com/leilamounji/me-aka-ariel-my-love-in-life-the-little-mermaid/