As he (Jesus) approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it
and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace.” Luke 19:38-42
Lord Jesus, we live with a deep ache for peace—a longing for everything to be the way you designed things to be. Though we’ve found eternal peace in the gospel, we are still tricked into thinking a more tangible, satisfying, right-now peace can be found somewhere else. We get restless, and then choose foolishly.
Some days we’re like children demanding 4 o’clock-cookies before a 5 o’clock-supper. Cravings and aches take over. Good longings and better judgment get sabotaged by smells and sights, and an irrational sense of need or entitlement.
Other days we get sucked into the world of “if only.” If only we were 25 years younger, or could’ve been born in a different era, or into a different family. If only we had a different story, fewer hassles, or more friends, If only we could win the lottery, had never been abused, were married (or single) again. If only our kids would say “Yes” to all our suggestions. The If-only-list goes on.
But then we hear you utter the only truly significant “If“ “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace.” Indeed, Jesus, you alone—this day and every day, are the Prince of Peace, king of calm, and lord of serenity.
Only in union and fellowship with you, do we find the true and sufficient peace for which we long—whether we are living in a penthouse or “outhouse”; with good health or another worrisome diagnosis; whether we are adored or ignored.
Until the Day of quintessential peace, continue to fill and free our hearts with your peace, Jesus. Replace our demandingness with gratefulness. All we really need is you plus what you choose to give us. So very Amen we pray, in your tender and triumphant name.