This sermon explores Jesus’ comforting words to his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid”.
- Understanding the “Heart”: In biblical terms, the “heart” is the core of our being, encompassing our mind, emotions, will, and spirit. A troubled heart signifies distress, worry, or despair across all these aspects.
- Jesus’ Gift of Peace: Jesus offers a multifaceted “peace” (shalom) that is holistic well-being, reconciliation with God, and a supernatural inner tranquility independent of external circumstances. This divine assurance banishes fear and empowers us to live out our faith.
- The World’s Fragile Peace: Unlike the world’s peace, which relies on external conditions like prosperity or stability and is often fragile, Jesus’ peace sustains us through conflict and opposition. It equips us for “trouble in this world” while maintaining peace in Christ.
- Personal Experiences of Christ’s Peace: I share personal examples of cultivating this peace:
- Silent Meditation: A year of consistent silent meditation, despite its challenges, has transformed my heart by helping me stay in the present moment.
- Hiking the Bruce Trail: During a difficult 18km stretch, I chose not to be whiny, focusing on the present and trusting in a “God-soaked universe” to take the next step. This inner peace is continually taught and reminded to us by the Holy Spirit.
A Call to Action: Place your desire for inner peace into Jesus Christ’s loving arms.
Let us embrace Jesus’ profound gift of peace, cultivating inner tranquility that transcends worldly troubles. Through practices like silent meditation or trusting in a “God-soaked universe” amidst life’s challenges, we can foster this holistic well-being. May this Christ-given peace empower us to live resiliently and reflect His light in a troubled world, remembering the Holy Spirit will always guide and remind us of His teachings.
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