The Gospel of John narrates Jesus’ words, proclaiming, “Peace I bequeath to you, my own peace I give you, a peace that the world cannot give—this is my gift to you.” (14.27) These words unequivocally indicate that this peace transcends our human comprehension. Now, let us delve into the distinction between the peace we perceive in human terms and the peace Jesus bestows upon us. To gain a deeper understanding of their true nature, we shall construct a comparative chart highlighting the unique characteristics of each type of peace.
In human terms, the most important and primary understanding of peace is the time of quiet extending between two wars, the absence of war. Peace is an invisible sense of security necessary for the comfort and happiness of public order and decorum. It is a state of law and order, free from aggressive intimidation and persecution, guaranteed by governments and an educated society.
The Prophet Hosea, in a poetic manner, proclaims peace according to God’s divine understanding. “When the day arrives, I shall make a treaty with them, with the wild animals, the birds of the sky, and the creeping things of the earth. I shall shatter the bow and the sword, and warfare, and expel them from the land. I shall grant you peace and tranquility, and you shall dwell in your homes with hope. I shall betroth you to myself forever, shall betroth you in uprightness and justice, and faithful love and tenderness. Yes, I shall betroth you to myself in loyalty, and you shall come to know Yahweh.” (2.18–20).
It is impossible to describe God’s peace through external means. Even the fierce waves and breaking swells are subdued only by the power of God’s covenant. This covenant connects not only humans but also the animals of the wilderness, birds of the skies, and all creatures that crawl and move on Earth. It encompasses the entire created universe and the energy and life that animate it. Through this unbreakable bond of peace, God’s life flows throughout the universe, chasing away the unsettling darkness of evil.
The peace bestowed by Jesus establishes the presence of God. Any environment devoid of God’s presence falls under the dominion of evil; no such place as a “no man’s land” exists. This peace reveals that the old rule of “eye for an eye” or “tooth for a tooth” lacks the ability to bring about the presence of God as outlined in the new law of the new creation, which consists in promoting faith against blasphemy, hope against death, and love against hatred.
Peace be with you.
