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Bible Project Video – SHALOM: “Peace”

The Bible Project offers us a great explanation of “Peace.” It refers not only to the absence of conflict but also to the presence of something else. In this video, they explore the meaning of biblical peace and how it all leads to Jesus.. Click here to watch it on YouTube.

Living up here in Canada, the winter season brings with it incredibly early sunsets. In fact, yesterday (the shortest day of the year), the sun dipped below the horizon at 4:30 PM. For me, this can make the season feel particularly dark and challenging. It’s as if the long, sunny days are just a memory, and it’s hard to imagine them returning again. But, December 21st, also serves as a reminder. It’s a turning point, where little by little, the days will start to get longer again. It echoes the truth that no matter how long and dark the season may seem, it’s just that – a season. And like all seasons, it too shall pass.

The story of Jesus calming the storm, in Mark Chapter 4, is a reminder that Jesus is with us, even when it doesn’t feel like He is. Just as He was sleeping on a cushion during the storm, we might wonder where He is and why He’s not helping in our times of trouble.

Notice the disciples’ words here in verse 38, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”

This question reveals a deep human anxiety. It’s not just a cry for help; it’s a questioning of Jesus’ concern for their well-being. In the midst of the storm, their fear was clouding their understanding of who Jesus was and His care for them. This is something many of us can relate to. When we face our own ‘storms’ – those dark, overwhelming periods in life – we might also be asking, does Jesus care? Why does He seem so distant or inactive in our struggles?

By calming the wind and the waves with a command, ‘Quiet! Be still!,’ He answers their question not just verbally but through His actions. This response is a powerful demonstration of His authority and care. It shows us that Jesus is not indifferent to our struggles. He’s well aware, fully in control, and deeply concerned for our welfare.

His response invites us to trust in His sovereign power and His loving care, even when it feels like He’s ‘sleeping’ through our trials. It’s a call to remember that Jesus is always with us, actively working in our lives, even when we don’t understand it.

The next time you’re struggling to find peace in your life, focus on the ‘Four P’s of Peace.’ These four ‘P’s,’ drawn from the story in Mark chapter 4, encapsulate key aspects of faith that offer us tranquility and reassurance in the midst of life’s storms:

• Power: Belief in Jesus’ sovereignty brings calm to our chaos.
• Presence: Knowing Jesus is with us offers comfort in our solitude.
• Purpose: Understanding His reasons in our trials provides clarity in confusion.
• Perception: Trusting beyond what we see instills serenity amidst uncertainty.

This Week’s Printable

Here is this week’s printable. Click the image to view and print a higher resolution.

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