Dear Editor:
From ancient times, the hearts of men have longed for peace, not merely cessation of war, but for peace of mind, heart and soul.
What does peace mean?
To some it’s a deep down hope amidst the battles of life. To others the struggles are over and peace has arrived like an evening star and the soul is in repose.
To some it may be heard in the call to arms as they believe “there is nothing so likely to produce peace as to be well prepared to meet the enemy.”
And still, to others, it’s a condition of the mind that dwells not on outward things but within the soul.
In the early days of Israel, the benediction was “The Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace” as written in Numbers 6:26.
Throughout the Near and Middle East, the popular greeting, even today is “Peace be unto you.”
But how far from peace are the intents and purposes of men’s hearts?
Was peace intended for mankind?
Almost 2,000 years ago messengers from heaven brought mankind a message that included “Glory to God” and “Peace on Earth.”
Could it be that Glory to God in our lives has something to do with our human restlessness and lack of peace? Could it be that in claiming it for ourselves, and in denying the rightful One the glory, we find ourselves destitute of peace and happiness? No wonder the apostle Paul said, “Your glorying is not good,” in Corinthians 5:6. Self glory is always uncomfortable in God’s presence.
“Thou dost keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed in Thee.” Isaiah 26:5.
May the peace of God, that passeth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds, through Christ, for “He is our Peace.” Ephesians 2:14.
Retired Pastor
Cliff Drieberg
Seventh-Day Adventist Church
Osoyoos, B.C.
