ADVENT WEEK 2: PEACE

Today, the second Sunday of Advent, a candle symbolizing peace is lit. I will be the first to admit that this season is often more chaotic and stressful then peaceful. However, in the midst of all the craziness, remember that Jesus is the true source of peace. This is the reason we are celebrating Christmas. 2000 years ago, the Son of God entered the world to save His people. Isaiah 9:6 says that Jesus is the Prince of Peace. Jesus was born to die to make peace between God and man. At the cross, Christ defeated death and sin, and He tore down the barrier that separated us from God. Through His precious blood and by His wounds, we have been brought near (Isaiah 53). We now have access to our Heavenly Father. In Christ, we are no longer strangers, but members of God's house. Jesus is our peace, our Shalom. (Ephesians 2:14). Because of Jesus, we can experience true peace deep in our heart. Once you believe in Christ, He fills your heart with an indescribable peace. I personally have experienced this peace. When the world seems upside-down and I have every reason to fear, I have felt God’s presence and peace come over me. We do not need to be afraid because Jesus is always with us. His peace rules in our heart (Philippians 4:7). "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (John 14:27). What words of comfort. Dearly beloved, no matter what is going on, remember to look to Christ for hope, and find rest and peace in His loving arms. "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased" (Luke 2:14).