The Gift of Peace

by Robin Gray

I’m a nurse, and that is sometimes both a blessing and a curse. I understand a lot of things medically, and when I don’t understand them I know what resources to go to in order to better understand. I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to help some of my family members through difficult illnesses, and I have been blessed to watch them recover good health or witness them pass from this life to the next.

But I also see symptoms and hear diagnoses on occasion that give me insight into what may come based on my medical knowledge and work experience, and sometimes those insights are not good ones. I’m also a “worst case scenario” thinker and that certainly doesn’t help. I’ve told my sister on more than one occasion, “Sometimes I know just enough to worry myself to death.”

Fear of global proportion

This week we have been told that we are facing a global pandemic and our state and federal governments have declared a state of emergency. Coronavirus (CoVid-19) has wreaked havoc in other countries and there are now confirmed cases in 49 states as of today. In Italy, the number of critically sick and dying patients has overwhelmed the medical community and shut down the nation. People around me range in their reactions to this news from either all out panic, or not taking the threat seriously at all. I find myself somewhere in the middle. I’m concerned, but not panic stricken. (I could go off on a “nurse” trail here about the importance of social distancing, self-isolation if you are sick, and good handwashing, but the CDC and the WHO websites are far more expert at explaining those things than I will ever be.)

Jesus predicts a coming fear

There is a story in John’s gospel that speaks of an impending state of panic. A conversation occurred between Jesus and his disciples on the eve of Passover. It was a night of celebration and joy, and yet Jesus was warning them of events to come. He knew that he would be betrayed by Judas, and denied by Peter. He knew that the rest of the disciples would scatter in fear. He knew he would be tried, convicted, and crucified. And he also knew that these events would induce shear panic into all of those that loved him. So he left them a few instructions about abiding in his teachings, and loving each other. Then he gave them a gift that would transcend any panic or fear that might come their way.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)

Jesus knew that there would be a moment in the coming hours that would induce shear panic and fear for each of them, and he wanted them to remember in that moment that his peace would transcend their circumstances.

Fear on a personal level

I have a family member very near and dear to my heart that has been experiencing a health crisis in the last few weeks. I will not tell her story here, because it is not mine to tell. But I will admit that there have been nights and days when sleep has eluded me and worry has troubled me for her. About two weeks ago I said out loud, “Okay Lord, I’m giving her to you and I’m going to sleep. If anyone loves her more than me, it’s you. I trust you with her.” And then I let the peace that passes understanding calm my fears and close my eyes.

When the world gives you facts, God gives you peace

I do not know yet what the outcome of this disease will be. I certainly hope it will be minimal upon our nation and our people. I believe in science and facts, and gathering as much information as possible. I’m grateful for the protective measures that now appear to be undertaken by our state and federal government. I’m thankful for the scientists and researchers tasked with finding a treatment, a vaccine, and hopefully a cure. I’m grateful for the leadership and preparedness currently being implemented in our hospitals and other treatment facilities.

The world can provide us with facts, and my mind is prepared to accept the facts. But only God can give us peace, and my heart has fully embraced his peace.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)