What People Really Want

Over the past three years I have been conducting an admittedly non-scientific, yet reliable poll. I frequently ask persons who may be struggling with some life issues this question:

" What do you want that you don't have?"

The overwhelmingly most frequent answer might surprise you. Do you think the answer might be "More money"? Wrong. How about, "Better health or a bigger house"? Nope. Maybe, "A trimmer waistline or better physical fitness"? Wrong again. Is the answer "A better portfolio or financial security"? Likewise no - not even close.

Far more often than not, when I ask this question the answer is, (drum roll please)...

"Peace"

Odd huh? Of all the answers to that question, "peace" is by far the most frequent. People most desire peace. It's a fleeting possession with millions of people who may be well healed, well positioned or in well health. Yet they long for peace. When peace is absent in any relationship, even our inner relationship with ourselves, life becomes miserable. Perhaps that's why, when Jesus appeared to the disciples in a locked room after His resurrection, the first thing He said to them was, "Peace be with you" (John 20:19). Jesus knew what they most wanted above all else: Peace. We all need peace. It can't be bought, traded for, inherited or earned.

Do you like the origins of words? Interestingly the New Testament word for "peace" is nearly synonymous with the salvation brought by the Messiah. If you want peace it can be found only through Him.

Peace be with you during this Easter season.