A Reflection On Peace

When I need to remember that Jesus has overcome the world

Seeds are buried in the ground. Caterpillars are confined in a cocoon. Grain is pummeled into flour. But each one has a higher purpose and either another world to experience or a function to fulfill. So do we. We can easily make the mistake of thinking that God’s primary purpose for us is a matter of our lifetime on earth, while His heavenly Kingdom is an afterthought. But the Kingdom is the main event. Like the seeds, the caterpillars, and the grain, we are in an elemental form, being shaped by the Father for greater, lasting purpose.

The world is the arena in which we are trained. As God shapes us for His Kingdom, He uses many means. One of them is the tribulation that our world naturally dishes out. But our trouble is not meaningless; we can take heart. Peace is found in seeing beyond the training ground that so often distresses us. It is found in placing all hopes in the One who overcomes the world.

Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.

John 16:33