Jesus Provided a Positive Outcome

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27

In a story titled “California International Marathon runner experiences cardiac arrest mid-race” posted yesterday by CBS News, it was reported that: A California International Marathon runner is recovering after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest during the race, the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District said on Sunday.

The runner, identified as a woman in her 30s, collapsed halfway through the race, in Carmichael, and was found unresponsive, Metro Fire said.

Medical staff immediately performed CPR and used an automated external defibrillator, AED, to help the woman regain a pulse. She was then able to breathe on her own and was taken to a hospital. Metro Fire said she was alert and in stable condition. 

"This positive outcome to this point was made possible by the quick actions of bystanders and on-scene EMS personnel, as well as the coordinated efforts of our fire dispatchers and command post staff. It also reflects the extensive planning and preparation carried out by multiple agencies including the California International Marathon staff, fire, EMS, dispatchers and law enforcement over the past several months to ensure the safety and security of all race participants," Metro Fire said.

And, you know, while there are many things that can lead to heart trouble, fear and worry are some of the biggest culprits. Which means, they must be dealt with quickly in order to obtain a positive outcome. 

Thankfully, Jesus, knowing that the hearts of men are easily troubled and fearful said, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” Jesus spoke these words to the disciples on the night of the Last Supper knowing they would need encouragement after his departure. This peace, which surpasses all understanding because it is tranquility in the midst of conflict rather than in the absence of it, was one of the greatest gifts Jesus left them and us through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. 

“For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

And it’s no wonder that Jesus would give us peace because He, Himself is the Prince of Peace, and the One we celebrate this Christmas season. This was something Isaiah prophesied more than 600 years before the blessed birth of our Savior. Amazing isn’t it? 

“For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.” Romans 5:10

Think about it. Before the birth of our Savior who is the Reason for the season, we had no hope for a positive outcome. We were enemies with God and destined for hell, but now we are “saved by His life” and have a hope and a future. 

“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,” Romans 5:1

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” John 10:27-28 

Furthermore, because of Christ’s birth, death, and resurrection, we are restored to a relationship of peace with God, which means we have freedom from fear and worry. This is the deep, abiding peace between our hearts and our Creator that cannot be taken away and is the ultimate fulfillment of Christ’s work as “Prince of Peace.” Now His peace lives within us. 

Fortunately, this peace is “not as the world gives,” which is temporary, evasive, and totally dependent on favorable circumstances to exist. When (not if) the storms of life sweep in, the world’s peace is swept away along with the tumultuous waves of chaos and the winds of change. But the peace of God is not dependent on circumstances because it’s given by the One who never changes and is found in the One who is our sure foundation and the rock on which we stand. The peace of God cannot be shaken by even the fiercest storm. 

So, as you prepare your heart to celebrate Christmas this year, remember why Jesus came my friend. Not only did He die for our sins so that we could be free from the penalty of them, but He came to bring us peace! Talk about a positive outcome!

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus to us. Salvation through Him is the greatest gift we could ever receive. Help us to understand what a precious sacrifice this was that we might live our lives in thankfulness to the Prince of Peace. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!