Connecting Point: Eye of the Storm

Although times seem troubling, we can have a full

assurance that peace is possible through Jesus Christ. Some believe the “world” to be on fire, everything from politics, economics, health issues, and a litany of other flashpoints. The mere mention of these items causes some people to feel their temperature rising. Christ’s peace is essential in such times.

The truth is turmoil has always been present in human history. We or our parents and grandparents have faced the 2008 housing market crash, 9/11, WWII, and the Great Depression in modern history. Some of the later events are absolutely foreign to most of us living today because we’ve experienced so much prosperity, unlike others around the world. The past two years have surely been a frenzy with Covid matters. Recent destruction across the Midwest due to tornado activity is a great reminder of unpredictability each day. Additionally, the tragic loss of life is heart-wrenching for so many.

Yet, for peace, the Bible provides us with many truths foundational to life. Much like joy and faith, peace too is more than a feeling but an attribute that relies on

trusting God’s sovereignty in all circumstances.

Hurricanes/tornadoes are well studied today; along with such knowledge and ever-improving technology, we know far more about their formation and impact than even a decade ago. Radar imagery became available in about 1944, providing critical specific data on storm cells. Prior scientists made notable studies on these storm systems as a moving vortex, including the calm center eye while winds moved in a circular pattern.

Liken peace in Christ to that of the eye of the storm. Life rages all around us, sometimes at great velocity, causing destruction. History has recorded over and over that we must weather hardships and even tragedies. We are naïve; it is true. That is why tragedies strike.

Jesus gave some assurance to his disciples in John 14, saying, “Do not let your hearts be troubled…” (verse 1). He was preparing them for what was to come, his death and resurrection. This same assurance is passed along to all believers today through the power of the Holy Spirit.

“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid,” (John 14:25-27). The reality is we can encounter trouble, Christians are not escapists, and we have faith in Jesus, knowing the Holy Spirit can give us comfort even amid storms.