PEACE!
Yesterday I read for the first time that New Zealand has eight peace experts in a leaflet I picked up at the local library. Those eight experts are not only peace experts, but also disarmament experts.
Many, many years ago I read in the Bible about the Prince of Peace, the Messiah. Other names for the Prince of Peace are Wonderful Councelor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father. (Isaiah 9:6)
The eight peace and disarmament experts are mentioned in the leaflet, which gives information about the “Peace and Disarmament Education Trust”.
The “Peace and Disarmament Education Trust” (PADET) is all about advancing education, bringing international peace, arms control and disarmament through education.
“Every year, approximately $150 000 is distributed to projects and scholarships that advance the the fund’s objectives.”
The funding decisions are in the hands of the Public Advisory Committee for Disarmament and Arms Control (PACDAC).
PACDAC is comprised of the eight New Zealad peace and disarmament experts already mentioned. Chairperson of the PACDAC is the Minister for Disarmament and Arms Control.
God’s perfect peace is found only in Christ Jesus, the Prince of peace.
Several years ago I received a very interesting book for Christmas. It is a hymn book and also a devotional book. The title is AMAZING GRACE and the author Kenneth W. Osbeck is writing “inspiring hymn stories for daily devotions”.
One hymn in the book is the hymn Peace, Perfect peace.
Kenneth Osbeck is writing that the hymn was written by Edward H. Bickersteth Jr., who served as the Bishop of Exeter in England.The hymn is based on Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.” Bickersteth composed the five lines while visiting a dying relative.
Here are the five lines:
1. Peace, perfect peace – in this dark world of sin?
The blood of Jesus whisers peace within.
2. Peace, perfect peace – by thronging duties pressed?
To do the will of Jesus, this is rest
3. Peace, perfect peace – with sorrows surging round?
On Jesus’ bosom naught but calm is found.
4. Peace, perfect peace – with loved ones far away?
In Jesus’ keeping we are safe, and they.
5. Peace, perfect peace – our future all unknown?
Jesus we know and he is our throne.