“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” John 14:27 NLT

This past week Russia invaded the Republic of Ukraine, setting off a global crisis. I’m sure that, like my family, you have been glued to the news, praying that the Ukrainians can hold off the invaders. As we watch David versus Goliath playing out before our eyes and we are tempted to feel anxious and afraid.

The first disciples were always struggling with fear. Jesus constantly reminded them to “not be afraid” throughout the gospels. However, telling someone not to be afraid doesn’t always work. Our minds and even our hearts are flooded with the possibilities of what could happen next. It consumes us and takes away our joy and happiness.

That is why I wanted to share this text with you. Our fear will not be released through positive thinking or simply turning off the television. Our peace comes from knowing that we follow the one who directed the stone from Davids’s hand. We follow the one that walked in the lion’s den with Daniel. We follow the one that conquered death and hell. It is Jesus who gives us this peace, and it is His gift to us.

Let us pray for the people of Ukraine and that peace will prevail throughout the world.

Journeying Together,