Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Peace on Earth

"Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."
Luke 2: 14
 
 
 
At  a family Christmas celebration, my oldest granddaughter, Joy-Joy, read Luke 2: 1-20. It's the story of angels appearing and declaring to shepherds that the Savior, Christ the Lord, had been born. The shepherds hurried to Bethlehem to see the child.
 
Christmas is about God coming to us as a baby, born of a virgin, and dwelling among us.  Jesus (meaning "Savior") came to save people from their sins. Living a sinless life,  Jesus died on a cross,  was resurrected from the grave, and ascended to heaven. He promises to come again.
 
Isaiah prophesied about this child, Jesus the Christ:
 
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful  Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9: 6
 
 
Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace. Jesus Christ is Peace. Having been justified through faith in Him, we have peace with God (Rom. 5:1). Jesus said, "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).
 
In this world, we long for "Peace on Earth." Do you need peace? Promised peace is found in  Jesus Christ.  
 
Glory to God in the highest!
 
 
Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your only son, Jesus, to this world to save us from our sins and reconcile us to you. May the peace of Christ rule in our hearts at Christmas time and in the coming year. We give you glory! In the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace...amen.