Today we remember the presentation of Jesus in the temple as a baby. In the temple, Jesus was welcomed by an older man - Simeon - nearing the end of his life. Simeon's words on seeing Jesus are words every Christian should make one's own. "Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation."
Like Simeon, we have seen our salvation in the life of Jesus Christ. Like Simeon, the effect that should have on us is ... peace.
The word "peace" in the Bible refers to a mental attitude of tranquillity a Christian experiences from a relationship with God. It describes the result of a person's response to God's Grace. A response we refer to as faith. There is personal peace with God, which comes when a person accepts Jesus Christ as Savior. Then, there is the peace of God, which is available daily as the believer participates in the Christian life. So, when we respond to God's grace by faith, the result is peace.
Amazing Grace is the most powerful Christian hymn because it speaks the truth simply and profoundly.
Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I am found
Was blind, but now I see
Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
“The Christian faith makes it possible for us nobly to accept that which cannot be changed, to meet disappointments and sorrow with an inner poise, and to absorb the most intense pain without abandoning our sense of hope, for we know, as Paul testified, in life or in death. . .’that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose.'” – Martin Luther King Jr.
This quote from Martin Luther King Jr perfectly explains why being a Christian brings a peace beyond all understanding. We have peace because we believe God's love gives our life purpose.
"Now that we have been put right with God through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Romans 5:1
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