Peace On Earth

When we humans think of peace, we usually think of the absence of something. If only people wouldn't hate each other. If only we didn't have any weapons of war. If only poverty could be abolished. If only we could win the war against disease. If only justice could prevail. But if all our “if only” prayers were answered, the peace of God would not be the result. The peace of God is not simply the absence of adversity and war. Did you ever think about the fact that the sovereign God chose to become one of us at a time in history when external peace (the Pax Romana) prevailed throughout most of the civilized world?

God came to us, in the person of Jesus, at a time when massive armed conflict was not a factor. He brought peace to the world, not by taking away or removing problems, but by adding His presence to the world. Immanuel - God with us.

The peace of God is the presence of God. The peace Jesus brought, and the peace He still brings, is His presence as He lives right within each person who calls on Him as Savior and Lord.
Christmas is much more than a time when we all try to be happy, nice, merry and peaceful. It’s much more than trying to have a peaceful dinner with extended family and relatives with whom you normally don't get along. It’s much more than trying not to have bad things happen for a little while. Christmas reminds us that the peace of God comes to us only by Christ’s presence.

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests." (Luke 2:14)

Who has the “favor” of God resting on them? All those who have become “children of God” as a free gift of salvation by faith and belief.

The peace of God proceeds from God, not from men. God brings it, and He gives it to those upon whom He gives the greatest gift. We cannot generate the peace of God, but we can receive it.
"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).

The peace of God is not the realization of all of our “if onlys.” The peace of God is the presence of Christ within us. Immanuel (God with us) has come to find us and save us.

O come let us adore the Prince of Peace.

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