A ROSE CALLED PEACE

The jigsaw puzzle picture displayed a lovely rose with the word 'peace' inscribed beneath it. Sadly the piece with the word peace was lost. It was the missing peace! Our lives can be like that jigsaw. We may have everything our heart desires but there is still a missing peace. We feel a keen sense of disappointment like someone who stoops to inhale the fragrance of a rose only to discover that its peaceful perfume is not there. The youthful Augustine tried every pleasure the world could offer but he was totally frustrated until he surrendered his life to Christ. He then spoke these immortal words, "O Lord we are restless until we find our rest in Thee."

Before Jesus died He said to His disciples, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you, not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." [ John 14:27 ]. Here is the priceless legacy of peace that money can never buy. It has been said that, "Where there's a Will, there's relatives!" If only people would rush to the Saviour with the same enthusiasm that they run to the solicitor! The peace that Jesus freely offers us is a distinctive brand of peace that is totally different to anything the world can provide. He clearly said, "My peace I give to you!" It is the peace of God that surpasses all understanding. [ Philippians 4:7 ]

The peace this world gives is variable because it depends upon our circumstances. But the peace the Lord Jesus Christ gives is eternal. Today this rose of peace can be yours! His perfume will linger with you through all the ups and downs of life and even through the valley of the shadow of death. [ Psalm 23 ]