Peace

Next Saturday is International day of Peace, we have our one of our schools’ workers, Katy Hall, reflecting on peace.

Sat around the campfire at Capernwray for our family holiday we sang the words “Stop, be still . . . My peace, Jesus says, I give to you, my peace.” It comes with some great actions, and is just about simple enough for my brain to remember in the good, bad and ordinary of life.

When given a present, wouldn’t it be strange to leave it on the side and never get round to unwrapping and receiving what is inside! Well, Jesus gave his peace to his disciples, like a present, saying “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27(NIV)

In the summer term we were blessed to be able to meet with many Year 6 children preparing to move onto Secondary school this year. During the lessons we shared Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) “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 minds in Christ Jesus.”

Jesus did not want his friends to stay in the place of feeling afraid, anxious or troubled. Jesus wants the same for us. So how am I going to unwrap the gift of peace today? What can I thank God for? What do I need to bring before and hand over to God, and what does God want to give me instead today? Well, He has already promised His peace, it is ready to receive, am I ready to receive it?