John 20:19-23

John 20:19-23 English Standard Version (ESV)

  What comes to mind when you think about peace?  Rachel and I recently got away for a few days without the kids, and sleeping in until 8 in the morning and not hearing the kids 'whispering' down the hall was pretty peaceful.  Similarly, going for a walk in the woods where all you hear is the birds and the wind in the trees is peaceful.
  But the peace that Jesus brings is more than that.  It's the kind of peace that nestles into the depths of your soul and whispers that your deepest fears have no power over you.  It's the kind of peace that comforts you in the dark of night when death lurks nearby.  It's the kind of peace that grants assurances when doubt is crowding you -- Jesus' peace reminds you that you are enough because you belong to Christ.
  Jesus brings a peace that overwhelms death and anxiety, a peace that transcends time and space, a peace that is meant for the universe and for the individual.  Jesus brings peace, and in doing so he sends the disciples (and us!) out into the world to announce the reign of the risen King!