Last week I started a new series exploring words that I think need to be introduced — or re-introduced — to this current generation of college students.

It’s not that these words are foreign to them… but I think the reality and truth behind many of these words seems to elude many students.

It has everything to do with learning to be in the world, but not of it.

Today’s word: PEACE.

It’s a word that means, among other things, to be in a state of (or to feel) untroubled; tranquil; content.

Untroubled — by anxiety or problems.

Tranquil — free from agitation.

Content — with what one is or has.

What percentage of your students does this describe?

The words peace and peacefully are found 249 times in the NIV translation of the bible — and occurs at least once in almost every single book between Genesis and Revelations.

After the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, God saw that His creation lacked peace… and I believe one of the threads that is woven throughout the biblical narrative is one of people in search of peace — and a God trying to help them find it.

But it’s still a struggle.

A recent survey showed that 94% of college students use the word “overwhelming” to describe their college experience (source: Tim Elmore, 2011 Catalyst Conference).

94% — overwhelmed.

94% — not experiencing peace.

They sound like Job when he laments:

I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil (3:26).

But Jesus, as the Prince of Peace, came to set things right.

He came to restore the land — and its inhabitants — to peace.

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests,” exclaimed the Angel of the Lord, at the birth of Jesus!

“Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” ~ Jesus

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” ~ Jesus

No, He did not promise a life free of pain, trials or suffering.

But he did promise peace.