By Carol Round – “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world”— John 16:33 (ESV).
A recent trip to the zoo with our youngest granddaughter was more memorable than we’d anticipated. We expected to experience the sights and sounds of the wild animals through a five-year-old’s eyes—which we did.
However, we didn’t expect unplanned events to lead to delays throughout the day. The first delay was easily solved when the women’s restroom was shut down as we waited in line. Two toilets overflowed and Ruby and I had to find another restroom. Problem solved.
The next two unplanned moments involved emergencies requiring ambulances, one for a zoo employee and the other for a zoo patron. In the first instance, we were waiting for our lunch order to be filled when an emergency led to the kitchen being closed. We munched on popcorn to satisfy our grumbling stomachs. The second event led to the zoo train being shut down when a zoo visitor had a heart attack on the train. We prayed for both individuals needing medical assistance.
Finding God’s Peace in Prayer
When we find ourselves in stressful times, prayer is the answer to finding the peace that only God can provide. Delays and emergencies happen. Our lives are filled with interruptions, inconveniences, frustrations, and unexpected events.
Accidents happen. Traffic makes us late. An appliance or vehicle breaks when we can least afford to fix it or replace it. Unexpected illnesses delay or change our plans.
In times like these, we can seek God. Instead of being frustrated and angry, or blaming others for the inconvenience, we need to seek His peace. When life goes awry, we can be certain God has a better plan.
God Has a Better Plan
As Jesus’ disciples witnessed the events of Holy Week, all their future hopes and dreams were turned upside down. They expected to see the establishment of an earthly kingdom under the royal reign of Jesus.
Instead, they watched as Jesus was betrayed, experienced humiliation, and led away to an excruciating death on the cross. Horrified, the disciples were confused at what they witnessed. In the depths of their despair, they forgot His words. They forgot His promise. Death was not the final answer.
Thankfully, for us, Jesus rose on the third day. It was all a part of God’s marvelous plan for our salvation. No matter what happens to interrupt our day, we can take to heart the peace we can find knowing Jesus has overcome the world.
