THE PRINCE OF PEACE.

Twelve men were reclining in a circle on the floor. One had departed or there would have been one more. The leader, the epitome of confidence and peace; Although He knew for certain that His “life” would shortly cease. He knew what would be done to Him, but didn’t run away. The Pharisees and Romans would butcher Him that day. Then, when the meal was over, He would meet His destiny In a quiet olive grove they called Gethsemane. The time had come for them to leave and Jesus led the way. They visited the Temple for that’s where He would pray. The outer gates were covered with an ornamental vine, Suggesting that God’s people were all sons of the Divine. He looked at them and commented that none of it was true. “I am the vine” He stated. “And I am leaving you” I’m going to My Father, but you won’t be alone. I’m sending you a Comforter which you have never known. I’m leaving you empowered with a sense of inner peace. You’ll think that I’ve deserted you and ministry must cease. “Let not your hearts be troubled and be not filled with fear. I’m going to My Father; but My Spirit will come here.” They didn’t understand Him. He thought they sounded grieved. “At last it’s really happened. At last you have believed!” Then in the temple courtyard the Master knelt in prayer, Because He was the true High Priest, He needed to be there. He was interceding for the folk from every age; Asking for empowerment for the war that we must wage. And then in generosity He granted them His peace. Not the sort they knew about. That sort was soon to cease. It was a true security that none of them had known, But something deep inside of them that said, “You’re not alone” A peace that they had heard about; the one the Priests would pray; To bless the tribes of Israel a very special way. “Shalom” would overtake them; God’s face on them would shine. And they would know God’s blessing from the hand of the Divine. A peace that was more tangible in all they’d have to face. A knowing He was present and would bless them with His grace. And when this was completed, they carried on their way To gather in Gethsemane and meet His fate that day. Jim Strickland – written Sunday, 22 May 2011