“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you.” (John 14:27)

Jesus’ promise of peace to the disciples is also available to us today.  It is a beautiful gift that we cannot get from the world. Let me share a story to illustrate. 

It started with a call from my urologist, “You have an aggressive and an advanced form of prostate cancer.”  A biopsy showed an increased PSA, the marker of prostate cancer’s presence, and a Gleason score of 9 out of 10, a measure of the aggressiveness of the cancer.  I was shocked and initially fearful.  I let family and friends know and asked for their prayers.  As I started to receive the assurance of their prayers and concern, I began to experience God’s love and peace.  Like the disciples, I needed to realize that Jesus was in my midst to receive his peace. 

He was with me in the numerous acts of love from my wife, our children, and brothers and sisters in Christ. He was with me as a good Christian brother inveigled his way into the pre-op room as my brother (in Christ, that is) and led the doctors and nurses circled around my bed in prayer before surgery.  He was with me through my wife who was a constant support and always present.  He was with me through adult children who left their own families to spend time with me. He was with me in the quiet moments as he whispered to my spirit.

After thirteen years of apparently being cancer free, my PSA began to rise again. It was right after a new scan had been developed to detect tumors as small as a few millimeters called a PSMA scan. While the insurance company first denied coverage, they later approved it and discovered a small tumor above my bladder.  The radiologist recommended proton radiation which the insurance again denied but later approved.  I had thirty-seven radiation treatments without a trace of side effects.  That took place three years ago and my PSA has continued to decline below the recurrence level. 

How do we seek peace from Jesus? By asking him to come into our midst, seeking his support, healing, and peace. He often brings healing in ways we may not be aware of.  He uses modern medicine.  Sometimes he heals directly.  He inspires support and love from family and friends.  The result, a peace the world cannot give. 

Have you sought the peace that Jesus offers?