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peace and Pearl Harbor



Yet war continues today in very different ways.  Study the nations that have come and gone and you will see how real bullets have been traded for chemicals, destroying data and so much more.  Bullets still fly, but things seem to be much more complicated.  Some of the places that have never seen actual war are in the middle of pain due to death.

Places like San Bernardino, California and beyond have seen horrible happenings.  Home invasions and crime continue.  Recently a pastor’s wife was killed in Indianapolis, Indiana when men broke in her home.  What I am pointing to is the fact that pain is rampant today.

We cannot point to the single issue of terrorism, yet that is a grave problem today.  We cannot only look at crime, whether murder, shoplifting or other, things are happening that show us the need for Jesus and His peace.  We need, our world needs, our families need, our schools need, our neighbors need … all need the peace that Jesus offers.

I started a series Sunday called CHRISTMAS ARK’s (acts of random kindness) and talked about the peace that Jesus gives.  Here are a few verses that stick out in my mind:

for God is not a God of confusion but of peace

Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it.

John 14:27  NASB
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.

This is not intended to be a political statement.  In no way do I want to make a case for gun control or say that more people need to carry a gun.  What I will say is that people need Jesus and less of what leaves us in turmoil. 

The peace that Jesus gives, the peace that we talk about at Christmas, begins in our hearts and is seen in our words and actions.  This peace is not about the lack of war or pain in the world.   In fact the peace of God allows us to deal with bad news or tough situations.  I need and want to give that true peace!

Please understand and know well that if my family or church family was under attack that I would do whatever is needed to protect them.  That could mean picking up and using a gun or a number of other things.  It means even more that I must fall to my knees and beg for God’s protection and for the salvation of those far from God.

Peace is a big deal.  It is time that you and I share with others the peace that God has given to us.  Others can be and will be changed by God as His peace becomes a reality in their lives.

I will hear what God the Lord will say; For He will speak peace to His people, to His godly ones; But let them not turn back to folly.

The word which He sent to the sons of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ (He is Lord of all)—

May you and I be found speaking peace over those we have influence over.  There will be fewer fights, more courage, stronger families, kids that go further and more abundant life when we speak peace!

Isaiah 52:7  NASB
How lovely on the mountains Are the feet of him who brings good news, Who announces peace And brings good news of happiness, Who announces salvation, And says to Zion, “Your God reigns!”

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