Tuesday, May 20, 2025

Peace Beyond Understanding

 


Jesus said to his disciples: 
“Peace I leave with you; 
my peace I give to you. 
Not as the world gives 
do I give it to you. 
Do not let your hearts 
be troubled or afraid." 
(John 14:27)




The Savior speaks with love so deep, 
A promise strong, a vow to keep. 
Not as the world gives fleeting peace, 
But one that makes all fear release.

Let not your hearts be filled with dread, 
For He has gone, yet not misled. 
His path was set, His way was true, 
Returning home, the skies so blue.

Rejoice, for love has led the way, 
The Father's will He must obey. 
Though darkness looms and trials rise, 
His peace remains—it never dies.


Lord Jesus, 

You have promised a peace beyond what this world can offer, a peace that calms every troubled heart and quiets every fear. I open my heart to receive this gift, trusting in Your love and divine plan for me.

Help me to rejoice in Your presence, even in moments of uncertainty and trial. Teach me to walk in obedience, just as You followed the will of the Father with unwavering faith.

May the world see Your love through me— a love that reflects the peace You have given, a love that stands firm against darkness, a love that glorifies the Father above all.

I surrender my worries to You, O Lord, knowing that You have overcome the world. Strengthen me to trust in Your promises, and lead me to live in the fullness of Your peace.

Amen.





Pericope:
III: The Book of Glory
THE ADVOCATE
John 14:15-31

Gospel Acclamation
Christ had to suffer and to rise from the dead, and so enter into his glory.

Gospel | John 14:27-31

27 Jesus said to his disciples: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid. 28 You heard me tell you, ‘I am going away and I will come back to you.’ If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father; for the Father is greater than I. 29 And now I have told you this before it happens, so that when it happens you may believe. 30 I will no longer speak much with you, for the ruler of the world is coming. He has no power over me, 31 but the world must know that I love the Father and that I do just as the Father has commanded me.”


John 14:27-31 is part of Jesus' farewell discourse, spoken to His disciples during the Last Supper. This passage is significant because it reflects Jesus' deep concern for His followers as He prepares them for His imminent departure.


Historical Context

During this time, Jesus was preparing His disciples for the challenges they would face after His crucifixion. The Jewish leaders were actively opposing Him, and the disciples were struggling to understand the gravity of the situation. Jesus reassures them by offering His peace—a peace unlike what the world provides. He also speaks of His obedience to the Father, emphasizing that His actions are driven by divine purpose rather than worldly power.


Background

This passage is set within the broader context of John 13-17, known as the Farewell Discourse. In John 14, Jesus comforts His disciples, promising the Holy Spirit as their helper and guide. He emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience, urging them not to be troubled or afraid. His words serve as a foundation for Christian teachings on peace, trust, and divine guidance.


Learning Lessons

John 14:27-31 offers profound lessons on peace, faith, and obedience. Here are some key takeaways:

True Peace Comes from Christ: Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you.” This reminds us that the peace Jesus offers is different from worldly peace—it is not dependent on circumstances but is rooted in trust in Him.

Overcoming Fear Through Faith: Jesus encourages His disciples not to be troubled or afraid. This teaches us that faith in God can help us navigate life's uncertainties with confidence and courage.

Rejoicing in God's Plan: Jesus tells His disciples that they should rejoice because He is returning to the Father. This highlights the importance of trusting in God's greater plan, even when we don't fully understand it.

Obedience to God’s Will: Jesus emphasizes that He does exactly what the Father commands Him. This teaches us that true fulfillment comes from aligning our lives with God's will.



Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot

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