I was just thinking, with all the conflicts, wars, troubled times since Jesus walked the earth, where is the promised peace? Isaiah wrote, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, the government will be on his shoulders. And he shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isa. 9:6 NIV).
As Christmas nears, our world is in a mess. Russia and China are on the rise again, giving the world the rumors of war. COVID variances are putting fear into the hearts of people of all nations. Crime is at an all-time high in our country. Homes are being broken. The street corners are filled with homeless people. To top it all off, people are turning to everything and everyone but the One they should turn for comfort — for peace. Jesus is the Prince of Peace who has the authority and ability to give true peace to those who seek Him.
Christ did not come to settle disputes, arbitrate accords or end wars around the world. But He did come to bring peace to the wars that rage in the hearts of humans from every nation. When God gave the greatest, most priceless Gift in the form of the Babe in the cattle stall in Bethlehem, His tremendous plan was to bring peace that transcends all understanding from the human standpoint. He sent His Son to live a sinless life so that He might be the perfect Sacrifice to atone for the sins of all who would believe in Him.
Jeremiah described the longing of Israel when he wrote, “Peace, peace,” they say, when there is no peace” (Jer. 8:11). That was the situation 2,600 years ago. But we have to recognize that time has changed nothing. As we dwell in these last days, we are reminded of what Paul wrote to the Church at Thessalonica, “Now brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, ‘Peace and safety,’ destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape” (I Thess. 5:1-3).
The Prince of Peace will be the King of Peace one day. But until then, we must tell the world that to experience peace amid conflict, they must know the Prince of Peace who was born in that cattle stall, taught about the coming Kingdom, died on a cross and rose victoriously from the grave. Once a person has experienced the salvation of the Lord, that peace and comfort become a reality.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:4-7).
Karen and I wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and the richest of God’s blessings in the New Year. May the Prince of Peace rule and reign in your hearts.
