Peace.

Week Two of Advent

Peace is a precious commodity these days.

In every corner of the world, various people groups are living in distrust, discord, and even open and often violent conflict with one another.

On the front lines of our own minds, we worry about safety and finances, relationships and crises of health.

Where can we possibly find lasting peace in this broken world?

Peace, my friend, will not be found in any worldly answers.  Not in the absence of conflict.  Not in money in the bank.  Not even in the restoration of our health.

Lasting peace will only and ever be found in the person of Jesus.

Isaiah prophesied regarding Jesus’ birth, “For to us a child is born, to use a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”  (Isaiah 9:6, emphasis added).

The type of peace offered by Jesus is so much more than the absence of conflict or worry.  Jesus promises “shalom.”  “Shalom” is a Hebrew word that encompasses the idea of something being whole or complete.  It implies that all is right and as it should be.  

Jesus entered this world to ultimately die in our place, bearing all of our sins on the cross.  In doing so, He provided us the opportunity to be made right with God. 

 If we put our faith in Him, Jesus restores what was broken between us and God.  (2 Corinthians 5:17-18)

If we put our faith in Him, Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit will begin transforming us into His image—helping us become who we were always meant to be. (2 Corinthians 3:18)

If we put our faith in Him, Jesus promises us an eternity in Heaven, where we will finally and fully experience true “shalom.”  Life in the presence of God, unblemished by sickness or sin, with all made right and good (John 14:3, Revelation 21:1-4).

Jesus brings us peace with God, peace with ourselves, and peace for our futures.  And that, my friend, is why we must look to Jesus for true peace.  

If you have never surrendered your life to Jesus, let me invite you this Christmas season to seek to learn more about Him.  Jesus longs to be your Wonderful Counselor, your Mighty God, and your Prince of Peace.