The Keeper of Peace

# The Keeper of Peace

In the United States, on May 15th each year, flags are flown at half-staff on the flagpole, called "half-mast" because they are lowered to the middle position. The American tradition of flying flags at half-mast symbolizes the nation's mourning and respect for those individuals who have made the greatest sacrifice while serving their country. For Peace Officers Memorial Day, this gesture acknowledges the inherent dangers in law enforcement and the personal losses that families and communities must bear.

Peace Officers Memorial Day was first established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962 and was signed into law that same year, according to the National Peace Officers Memorial Fund. This observance honors federal, state, and local law enforcement officers who have died or been wounded in the line of duty. In 2025, President Trump acknowledged the significance of this remembrance, stating: "We honor the brave officers serving on the front lines to protect families, protect communities, and bear the burden of responsibility that most Americans cannot fully understand." The National Peace Officers Memorial Fund coordinates annual events during National Police Week. These events include memorial services, prayer vigils, and the engraving of new names on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. According to the organization's website, more than 23,000 officers have died in the line of duty since 1786.

We give thanks to God for creating people with hearts willing to sacrifice to keep peace for their families, neighbors, communities, and society! Jesus Christ Himself is the One who dedicated His entire life to sacrifice for humanity—not only for the peace of the world, but also for the eternal life of all who accept Him as their Savior! "Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens" (Psalm 68:19).

Indeed, our Jesus is the "Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:5). "Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this" (Isaiah 9:6-7). As Jesus prepared to die on the cross, before His departure, He comforted His disciples, saying, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (John 14:27).

The peace of Jesus is given only to those who believe in Him. Those who have not yet trusted in God will not experience this wonderful peace, because it is not like the peace of the world. When we place our trust in God, He will guard our hearts from anxiety and fear in the face of life's storms, difficulties, and trials.

God's peace is not as humans understand it. "The peace of God, which transcends all understanding" (Philippians 4:7a), comes only when we truly rest in God's infinite care, knowing with certainty that His Holy Spirit is always within us, guiding us, teaching us, and helping us walk the right path according to His will. This very peace will "guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:7b).

God's peace does not depend on each person's living circumstances. Even though the world may change and shift, God's peace remains firm and eternal. God's peace is reconciliation with God the Father. Through the sacrifice of Jesus, we are reconciled with God and receive true peace, as the apostle Paul encouraged, "Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you" (2 Corinthians 13:11).

God's Word has reminded us to always live in peace and harmony with all people, for peace is one of the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). With peace, we can accomplish much fruit for God's house, for our families, and for those around us! Always pray and entrust all things to the Almighty, "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7). May the Holy Spirit of our Lord rule, teach, and comfort our hearts in a world full of turmoil; but we are confident that His eternal peace will miraculously fill our hearts; may He carry us through all the storms of life in peace and joy; grant us to live in peace, to care for and help those around us come to know that only Jesus Christ gives true peace, and may they open their hearts to believe in Him! Amen!

Listen to God's Word, my friend, Turn back to God today, Do not grow weary or be dismayed, Do not be anxious and troubled, Trust in the One who knows all things, All-powerful, who helps us walk the right way, Leave behind sorrow and misfortune, Receive God's love that lasts forever! Then your heart will sing out, Peace, thanksgiving to God endless and vast! He is our Savior, Forever glorified be His Name so bright!

Topics