“Peace be with you!” was Jesus’ greeting to His followers after His resurrection.

The Hebrew word used would have been shalom, which was the common Hebrew greeting of the day. The word means “peace,” but was used for “hello” and “goodbye” to indicate your good wishes to those you were speaking to.

Jesus’ peace helped countless early Christians withstand persecution, even when it led to their death. His greeting of peace was a reminder and a promise to them that as long as they kept the faith, they would know a peace in their heart, soul, and mind that could not be taken from them.

The peace Jesus spoke of is the same peace He offers us today: a peace the world can neither give nor take away. Jesus’ peace comes from the knowledge that you have taken the gifts offered you — forgiveness from your sins and the unconditional love of God the Father and Jesus the Son.

Today and always, make sure you have Jesus’ peace in your heart. Do not be afraid of pain, persecution, or trials. You have a Savior who will never leave you. His peace will be with you always.

Enjoy fully the shalom of Jesus in the chaos of this life.