Week Two – Peace

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. 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 NIV)

For most, December ranks high on our lists of the year’s busiest months. There are work parties and family gatherings to plan, school assemblies and church services to attend, and gifts to buy. During this busy time, our minds find new reasons to worry, and any inconvenience peaks our anxiety.

However, all of this pressure is the opposite of what this season is intended to produce in us all. While the world’s stresses pull us down, Jesus gently guides us beside peaceful pastures and still waters. He entered a world marked by tragedy, division, and corruption, just like today, and brought long-promised peace. He turned the page of human history from the pain of separation from God to peace found in his presence.

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 NIV)

Now, even when we are behind on our to-do lists, feeling uneasy, lonely, or anxious, we can find peace in Christ – lasting, eternal, deep-rooted peace. We can choose peace for our hearts, peace for our minds, peace for our family, peace for our friendships, and peace for our time. We can find comfort in knowing Jesus overcame the darkness of the world for our sake. He was and is the light of the world, the ultimate peacemaker, reconciling our relationship with the Father.

This Christmas, we can model our behavior after our risen Savior. With prayer and practice, we can be champions of peace inside our minds and outside of them – in our families and friendships. As this Christmas season marches on, hold tight to the promise of peace in Jesus. May the truth of this promise illuminate all your decisions and actions as you face the stresses of this world head-on. Make his peace a banner over your home and heart this Christmas season.