Mission as Sharing Christ’s Peace

Man’s pursuit of peace seems never ending. At any given point in time, we can find some conflict in some corner of the planet. Ignoring external peace, a person is rarely at peace with themselves. There are always some troubling thoughts, stress, anxiety etc., ensuring that whatever peace is found within doesn’t last long. However, as we know the peace which we obtain from Christ is different, everlasting and cannot be taken away from us. This is the peace which we received when we believed in Christ. Along with this peace, we obtain the joy of salvation as well.

Now as they said these things, Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and said to them, “Peace to you.” Luke 24:36

Whenever Jesus visited the disciples after his resurrection, his greetings always had a salutation of peace. This definitely helped the troubled disciples, who later gained courage to proclaim this peace all over earth. Further, it is only after receiving this peace from Jesus, were the disciples able to fully comprehend the implications of scriptures.

Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things. Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” Luke 24:44-49

Being witnesses of all the things which Jesus stood for, the disciples strengthened by the Holy Spirit spread the good news with peace and joy to all whose hearts were opened. Likewise in our current times, we are called to share the Peace which we received from Christ. But, firstly, how do we stand in the peace we have received? The peace which we received by believing in Christ, will remain in us through our faith in Jesus Christ and by meditating the Word. Paul emphasizes this when he writes to the Philippians.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:6-9

This internal peace which we have, will further lead to a global peace with the return of Christ. There would no longer be any anxiety or fear which could threaten to take our peace away. It is regarding this the prophet Micah writes about when he mentions the LORD’s rule on earth. All nations will be at peace with each other and restored to goodness, no longer will they wage war. The people of every land will live in safety and security and will not be worried about anything.

But everyone shall sit under his vine and under his fig tree, And no one shall make them afraid; For the mouth of the Lord of hosts has spoken. Micah 4:4

This theme of restoration is also seen in Psalm 85. The psalmist acknowledges God's faithfulness and asks for forgiveness and restoration. He recognizes that true peace and righteousness can only come from God, and he prays for God's mercy and favor. Looking at this hopeful future, the psalmist writes with faith:

Mercy and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed. Truth shall spring out of the earth, And righteousness shall look down from heaven. Yes, the Lord will give what is good; And our land will yield its increase. Righteousness will go before Him, And shall make His footsteps our pathway. Psalm 85:10-13

Ours is a world which desperately needs peace and it is up to us to share Christ’s peace which cannot be taken away. We can do this by being peacemakers, praying for restoration and revival, cultivating a spirit of thankfulness and prayer, and strengthening ourselves through the Word of God. May the LORD help us share the peace and joy we received through Christ.

"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:8-9