June 15 - Acts 10:34-38

Peter said, “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all), you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.”  

In Isaiah, we read, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!"

Jesus’ arrival meant peace!

Isn't it fun to read Peter’s words and realize that he is helping his listeners remember the experiences they witnessed when Jesus was alive? These people walked beside him as he performed miracles. They listened as he spoke with the Pharisees.  They were there when he was crucified and they heard the good news that he lived again, never to face death and that this resurrection was available to everyone.  Salvation had come to the earth through one man. No one need fear death or be bound by sin again.  Freedom was theirs. Freedom is ours.

Jesus came to proclaim peace to Israel, to a nation besieged with war and persecution.  He came to bring salvation to those who would listen and follow him.  He came to bring good news that it is God who is sovereign and it is God who will sit upon the throne.

God anointed him with the Holy Spirit and from then on, Jesus’ life, death and resurrection transformed the world.

Jesus’ arrival on earth meant peace!

Jesus’ arrival in our hearts means peace for us as well.  He brings good tiding and salvation to each of us as we acknowledge that our God reigns!