“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives.
Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27
Read John 14:23-31
Every Christmas as the air cools and lights twinkle, Christmas carols ring out proclaiming, “Peace on Earth good will to men.” Considering our world full of war, natural disasters and broken relationships, some might wonder, do we really have peace on Earth? These things, and even others, might suggest the answer would be a woeful no.
So why do we sing about Peace on Earth? Why do we proclaim good will toward men?
Because there really is peace on Earth. It just doesn’t look like the global unity and worldwide harmony we long for.
Instead…
Peace arrived on Earth in the form of a little baby born in a manger.
Peace tickled the Shepards’ hearts as they wondered at the angel’s news.
Peace guided the wise men as they traveled to worship the newborn King.
Peace poured out of the Teacher through his messages and example.
Peace settled among the people as they witnessed miracles and signs.
Peace protected a mother’s heart as her son became her Savior.
Peace was left behind for all who called upon the name of Jesus.
Jesus made a way for us to have peace with God and because of Him we have the peace of God. Peace with God comes in the form of salvation and reconciliation. Peace of God is an unexplainable calm, an unnatural strength, an irrational joy no matter what might be going on around us.
Though the world is still teeming with chaos, peace really and truly is on Earth. It beats in the heart of every follower of Christ; lending us a sigh of contented relief, a sparkle of joy and a glimmer of hope in the best of times but also in the worst of times.
Family Activity: Gather around the Christmas tree and have each family member pick
out their favorite ornament and share what makes it special.
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