Jesus offers us peace. But what does that mean? And what do we think it means?

Often we think of peace as a break from all of the things. A moment. Like a disruption. But ultimately, not something that lasts. Inevitably war will break out again.

We also seem to want peace to be an ongoing permanent state of being. A peace that lasts forever.

The first vision is pessimistic and the other is optimistic. But neither reflects an offer of assistance, joy, or new life.

Peace is also restoration, wholeness, justice, and stillness. It is active and represents a positive impact on our environment. And as peace-makers, we are bringing this broad sense of peace to every interaction and situation. So, in a very real sense, if there is to be peace, let it begin with us.