Monday, 17^th April 2023

Andrews Ampomah 

TOPIC: JESUS, OUR PEACE

 

THEME SCRIPTURE: “On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.” – John 20:19

 

PREPARATORY QUESTIONS:

1. What is peace?
2. Where is the source of peace?

 

All around us, there seem to be so many events that have thrown our world into many uncertainties. The world we live in today is volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. As we tried to recover from COVID-19 and re-adjust our lives, the Russia-Ukraine war destabilized economies worldwide. Things have become tough; people live in fear, anxiety, and much uncertainty.

Such is our context in our focus scripture: the disciples were faced with a lot of uncertainties and fear for their lives. They were unsure whether to believe the testimony of Mary Magdalene, Cleopas, and the other unnamed disciple or not. Is Jesus truly risen? Where is He? They were uncertain about the whereabouts of their Lord and Messiah. They feared arrest and being sentenced to death like Jesus.

In their state of uncertainty, Jesus appeared in the disciples' midst in his glorified body, defying natural barriers. And being with them, three times He declared to His disciples “Peace be with you."

This was to affirm to them that their greatest need in times of uncertainty and fear was the peace He bestows. Jesus gave them this peace from a position of authority and power as one who has conquered the grave and received it all. This peace Jesus gives is first a harmony between us and God, producing an inner tranquillity in our spirits.

Brethren, Jesus' presence restored hope and banished fear.

The mystery of the whereabouts of their Lord and Savior was now clear. Here He stands in their midst with every proof that He has risen from the grave. This peace didn't mean their world would improve; it was to reassure them that the Lord of all will be with them no matter what.

Beloved in Christ, the world around us is not getting better. Jesus himself narrated how challenging the end times will be. We may never know what else might destabilize our world after COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war. The global economy will get tougher and more uncertain. In this troubled world, how do I receive God's peace? "Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ," wrote Paul by the Spirit (Rom 5:1).

Meaning, our justification through Christ is the sure way of receiving God’s peace.

Jesus is the YHWH Shalom, the source of peace, wellness and completeness. He assures you of his presence, peace and power to carry you through your days here on this side of Jordan. Receive His peace over your life, marriage, children, and everything that concerns you. The YHWH Shalom makes all things well, Hallelujah!

FURTHER READING – Joshua 6:1-40

 Call to Salvation: Today is your day if you have not yet received salvation by turning over your life to Jesus Christ. Click here to do so. 

 

QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD:

1. How sure are you confident of the future?
2. Is your peace founded on Christ?

 

CONFESSION

Heavenly Father, I affirm that because of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, I can face tomorrow with all boldness and certainty, because my times are in your hands. All things work together for my good in Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

1-Year Bible Reading Plan

Numbers 36; Proverbs 27; John 9; John 10