Christmas peace

Author: Bishop J. Apfelbeck
November 2022 



As we prepare for Christmas, some easily find themselves caught up in the busyness of the season. After all, there are gatherings to plan, homes to decorate, and gifts to purchase. For others, Christmas brings with it tender memories. All of these circumstances have the potential to rob us of our inner peace. Let us pause together, and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, and the peace that the Lord wants to share with you and me.

In the Old Testament time of the prophets, Isaiah foretold the coming of the promised Saviour: “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9: 6). 700 years before Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem, He was called the Prince of Peace.

Think of the message of the angels when they announced the birth of the Saviour to the shepherds in the field: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2: 14). Here again, Jesus is introduced as the One who brings godly peace and goodwill to all people.

What does this peace look like? During His time on earth, although Jesus suffered and was surrounded by chaos, He demonstrated remarkable peace and composure. This peace was a result of His connection to His Father. He believed what the Father said and was filled with the certainty that His Father loved Him. He trusted the Father unconditionally and sought constant fellowship with Him in prayer.

The Son of God offers His peace to us: “I am leaving you with a gift – peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” (John 14: 27 NLT). This is certainly not the gift of a trouble-free life, but rather inner peace despite the difficulties of life. The faithful in Christ can experience this peace today, and ultimately pure and perfect peace in eternal fellowship with the Lord.

 

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