Would You Like Peace with That?

Prophecy is very popular these days. Looking at Amazon.com, I see about 1200 entries -- even bible studies for children (really?). I stay completely away from prediction of the 'end times' (we've been there for 2,000 years, see Acts 2:16-17)  or speculation on when Christ will return (we can't know, see Matt. 24: 36).  But one of my favorite topics, since childhood, is what's
known as the Millenium. Various places in the Bible describe an idyllic time -- and who can blame people for loving the scenes of rest and ease, of peace and plenty? Lead me to it! ...But what if that's not all there is? And do we have to wait until then, whenever that will be, to have peace? Let's look.

An early description of "the peaceable kingdom" as it's been called, is from Isaiah:  "The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them." (Isa. 11:6-7). Oh yeah! I could have my own pet lion? Very cool! And the descriptions of all nations flowing to Jerusalem to be taught by God (Isa. 2:1-5) and to worship God together (well, except for those who don't, Zech 14:16-21) sounds like a great time of celebration and joy, good food and expanding friendships.

Here's the deal:  Jesus already came and already gave us peace through his life, ministry, death, resurrection and ascension. We can already have that peace by trusting him instead of ourselves. Here's how the New Testament describes it:

• "You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, announcing the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all." Peter to the Roman centurion Cornelius, Acts 10:36. 
• "To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ." Rom. 1:7 (and see the openings of the rest of of Paul's epistles for the same wording). 
• "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phil 4:7.

Besides this, Jesus has fulfilled the high-priestly blessing given to the people in Numbers 6:24-26: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” His presence with us, right now, is the peace God promised to Israel. You can experience that by believing and trusting him.  

One day, for sure, Jesus will return and complete the job he began so long ago, and then everyone will be able to see and experience that peace, and the joy will be indescribable. But there's no need to wait for peace -- we have it now in Jesus! Hallelujah!