Peace I leave with you

- Submitted by Mary Anne Grand- layperson from Raymore United Church

June 17, 2025

key points from this story:

• Scripture emphasizes the value of peace.
• World leaders often ignore peaceful solutions.
• Jesus taught non-retaliation and moving on.
• Children see the world with innocence.
• Faith helps find peace amid unrest.
• Prayers offered for peace in our lives.

Matthew 5:9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” 2Thessalonians 3:16 “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways, The Lord be with all of you.” Psalm 29:11 “The Lord blesses God’s people with peace.”

Peace, I leave with you, my peace I give to you, how simple it would be for our world if these words were taken seriously. How do I write a message of peace when there are parts of the world that are sending missiles that will surely take the lives of innocent people. There are leaders who feel they must retaliate, after all they shot at me. It seems to me that no one wants to sit down and find a peaceful resolution to the situation. The powerful leaders of some countries have an agenda that does not have the word “Peace” in it. Some days it feels so hopeless and the feeling of helplessness seems to seep into our lives.

World leaders, perhaps would be wise to follow how Jesus lived his life here on earth. His advice to his followers and himself was when they entered a village and were not made welcome. They were to dust the sand from their sandals and move on to their next destination. No retaliation, no weapons drawn, no blood shed, just quietly leave and move on to the next destination to share the love of God with the people who were willing to listen and share the Good News.

If we could see the world through the eyes of a child, what would we see? Butterflies and rainbows, dragonflies and kittens, mud puddles and dandelions, happiness and giggles, and let’s not forget innocence. Moms and dads too teach love, respect and common sense and to pick them up when they fall.

How do we as adults address the situation of unrest in our world? Believe in God who is standing beside the weeping mother for the loss of her child. Believe in God who is standing in the bomb shelter listening to the people encouraging and supporting one another. God is not responsible for the destruction; it is the wickedness in the powerful leaders. There are good people in this world trying desperately to change the direction. We can only hope and pray that their agenda will be attained.

In the meantime, let us keep the faith, believe in ourselves, and find peace in our lives, in our families, neighbours, and communities. Blessed are you, Creator and giver of Peace, Peace be upon us, peace be upon our lives, peace be upon this day. The deep, deep peace of God which the world cannot give, be upon us and remain with us always. Amen.