Reflection: Reverend Johnny Rhoad

By Reverend Johnny Rhoad

“Reflecting on God’s Peace - Peace with God”

It is that word “peace” that can seem to be very confusing today. “Peace” is such a common word. “Peace” is used in almost everyone’s vernacular, everyday, language; but what do we mean by “peace”?

“Peace” - if we look up the word in the dictionary it states that peace can mean: Goodwill – Harmony – Concord - Reconciliation & Freedom… “Peace” can also refer to being calm and quiet, silent and still, in serenity, and tranquility!

Now I know that these are some big words that are used to define “peace”; but what is important for all of us to realize is that it is very important to have “peace” in our life. After all, if we are peaceful, doesn’t that “peace” shape our attitude, and how we behave each, and every, day? Consider it this way: does anyone really like being grumpy, recalcitrant, or a troublemaker? Who really likes to be mean and rude? Or if we reverse the thinking toward others - does anyone like the neighbour, roommate, family member, co-worker… that is stubborn, annoying and does not listen, or play fair?

I realize that undoubtably we are all saying “no” to these questions!

The world’s “peace” does not seem to be a lasting “peace.”

So, what does “peace” really mean?

In the Bible God proclaims peace.

Does God’s peace hold the same meaning, and significance?

Peace with God is what the Bible tells us we should hope for.

Peace with God fully activates love, happiness and joy into our life.

In other words, “God’s peace” fully covers all those dictionary meanings for “peace”!

Goodwill is God’s will for us.

Harmony is God’s sanctuary surrounding us with love. Will we acknowledge God’s presence in tranquility and serenity?

Concord – this is the bond, the promise, and covenant, that God has made for us and with us, and God will never break a promise!

Reconciliation – this is the peace, the gift of love, God gave us two millennia ago in sending the baby Jesus to dwell with us that first Christmas – Jesus taught us God’s way.

And freedom can only ever truly be achieved if we give ourselves over fully to God’s mercy and grace. That is why the angels all sang so happily when Jesus was born, because God decided to come and be with us. The angels sang, “Glory to God and peace on earth…” Those angels were singing: “Be happy and glad, because God loves you & God will save you.”

Oh God, may we be captive to your peace – may we treat our neighbours as we would like to be treated!

Merry Christmas everyone!