Here’s Hope: “I’ve got peace like a river, peace like a river in my soul.” “Peace Like A River,” African American Spiritual
Bible passage reading: John 20:19-20
Consider this: Have you had enough of the “stay at home” admonition issued by our state and federal government? We are really not restricted to the point that we cannot leave our homes. However we are restricted enough to appreciate what it might be like to be confined to our dwelling places. We are also afraid of an enemy we cannot see as we contend with this corona virus. Where is our hope?
Not unlike those first century disciples of Jesus in the Bible passage from John’s gospel, “On the evening of the first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.”
As the old gospel hymn states, “my hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’s blood and righteousness. On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand.” The first disciples were locked in their dwelling place for fear of the Jewish authorities. They feared that their Savior had been taken away from them forever. They did not have the benefit that we share as 21st century believers in Christ. We are privileged to have the Scriptures like John’s gospel to guide and encourage us as we search for hope and peace in this confused world. Jesus still reminds us, “Peace be with you.” The Holy Spirit is right here in your presence, even now. Are you worried or afraid today? Be encouraged and take heart as you READ God’s Word, the Bible each day. The Bible will lead you to God’s peace. Be encouraged, God loves and cares for His children.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, remind us that You are the God whose power is unlimited. We thank You that your Holy Spirit is the Great Comforter who cares for us. Please give us your peace that passes all understanding as we place ourselves in your loving arms today. Amen