Open the door
Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, “Peace be with you.”
(John.20.19)
The response of Jesus to every troubling situation is almost always the same. His disciples had hid themselves due to the persecution they faced and Jesus showed up. His first response to the trouble was, “Peace be with you.” It is instructive to note that no circumstance is beyond the reach of divine peace. When peace like a river attends your way, when sorrow like seas billow rolls, it shall be well with your soul.
However, did you notice the response of the disciples to the persecution? “When the doors were shut.” They hid themselves from their persecutors. That is the response of most people when going through tough times, they shut the door. Some would shut the door of their hearts because they are troubled. Others would shut the door of faith while more would shut the door of reasons. Why recoiling when there is help? Whatever your response is due to the pain, there is space to calm the storm. Peace be unto you and all yours.
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid (John 14:27).
Having experienced the troubles of the this world and overcame all, Jesus has a message for you. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you… let not your heart be troubled…” Open up your heart to receive the peace of God every time you’re troubled. Jesus is right there with you. Amen.
© Olusola John