Prince of Peace

"'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests,'" Luke 2:14

The streets of Bethlehem were clamoring. Her inns were overflowing with hungry, weary travelers seeking nourishment and rest. Her stables welcoming to their tired beasts. Her skies were clear and full of stars, one burning brighter than the rest.

Shepherds in her fields were sharing stories by an open fire of the passing crowds they'd seen that day, content with the company of their sheep. "At least we will enjoy peace under the stars tonight," one of them chided. "Surely, those innkeepers will have no rest while meeting the demands of all their guests!"

Then suddenly the sky filled with light and an angel of the Lord appeared in their midst. "Don't be afraid. I have great news for you and all the people. Today, in Bethlehem, a Savior was born to you. He is Christ, the anointed One. You will know it is him when you find the baby who is wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger."

And, with that piece of news, the skies were brilliant with the glory of the Lord and thousands of angels singing, "Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests."

In the midst of chaos and turmoil, God entered the world with the promise of peace through his baby son, Jesus.

This promise was not just for the shepherds nor was it a universal proclamation of salvation. Rather, the angel declares peace would be given to anyone (Jew or Gentile) who fears God and on whom God bestows his grace.

Do you need God to enter your world of chaos and turmoil? Do you need His heavenly peace to rule in your inner most being today? It's there for the asking. It's there if you choose to believe in Him with all your heart. God doesn't promise to take the troubles away, but he does promise to bring a peace beyond all understanding.

Dear God, I believe you are the Great I Am, my God, my Creator, my Savior. I confess I've sinned against you and I ask your forgiveness through your son, Jesus. Now, in the middle of my mess, in the uncertainty of tomorrow please, show me your grace and grant me peace beyond all understanding. Amen.

"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