A Gospel for Turbulent Times  
We are living in momentous days.  The fear of terrorism looms around us.  Wars are being fought in at least two hotspots of the world.  There is FEAR in the hearts of people ranging from the fear of personal danger to fear of an international recession.  In times like these, we need to remind ourselves that our faith is anchored in the Gospel of  Peace.  In fact, the Christian enjoys a three-fold peace:

The Peace of God:

"And the peace of God which surpasses all comprehension shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:7)  The peace of God comes as a result of our peace with God. (Romans5:1)

The Peace of Jesus the Son:  

" Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you... Let not your heart be troubled nor let it be fearful".  (John 14:27)

To experience the peace that Jesus gives we must first be reconciled to him (Colossians 1:20)

The Peace of  the Holy Sprit:  

" But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, self-control against such things there is no law".  (Galatians 5: 22).

Having received this peace the Christian has an obligation to share the Gospel of Peace with \ others  "Jesus therefore said to them, "Peace be with you, as the Father has sent me I also send you". (John 20:21)

Rejecting God is the ultimate evil.  This evil has consequences including lack of peace, selfishness, conflict and even destruction of innocent lives.

In such a world God has placed us - to be His instruments of peace.  Let us shine for Him in this dark and bleak moment of history.  Let us pray and support those who are carrying the torch of peace in far away lands.

Shalom!  

Jonathan James