The Advent of Christ’s Peace

As I think about the miracle of God becoming man in the incarnation, what stands out most in my mind is the giving of peace that Christ offers to the world. I’m meditating on Christ’s peace this Christmas season.

Yes, there are many things about the miracle of Christmas that are important like: redemption, forgiveness, wholeness, salvation, and many others to those who believe in him, but God’s peace stands out in this day and age as something we often misunderstand, but desperately crave.

The world wants peace. We want an end to wars; we want diplomatic solutions; cessation of terror; no more power struggles. We long for these things. Groups and individuals are willing to lay their lives down for these things.

And yet, peace may come, but it is ephemeral. New wars break out, old tensions escalate, we forget the past.

But Jesus came and brought the lasting peace that we desperately crave. He has already brought what we are seeking. But, in true fashion, he does so in a way that is not at all expected. He brings a different kind of peace.

Jesus says in John 14:27,

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

Jesus does give us God’s peace, but it’s the peace of knowing we are right with God. It’s the peace of knowing that Christ’s death on the cross and resurrection have already guaranteed future glorious resurrection life for believers in him. There is a security that comes from knowing we are safely in his hands: this is what his peace brings.

His death was necessary to bring reconciliation between God and mankind, between God and creation, and between individuals; only reconciliation through Christ brings this lasting peace.

So when Jesus offers us peace, he doesn’t mean the end of wars, or a better nightly news program. He means eternal wholeness. He means that there is nothing for us to fear, because Christ has already defeated the worst enemy—death—and when he returns we will see the end of death.

So don’t let your hearts be troubled as you think about the messiness of the world, of your country, of your family, or even your own heart. Don’t be afraid of what will come. Know that Christ’s death has bought you eternal peace. Peace that is unlike the world offers.

So as we celebrate Christ’s birth and as we wait expectantly for the advent of his return, remember that Christ’s peace is with you. The Prince of Peace has come.

I wish you a blessed Christmas eve and day, saying together with the apostle Paul,

“May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.” – Romans 15:33

Merry Christmas to each and every one of you. Blessings in the new year.

What are some ways you’ve experienced Christ’s peace this year? In what areas do you need it more in the year to come?

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