Advent 2010-#4

Candle of Peace

Isaiah 9:6-7 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. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.

Luke 1:78b-79 ..by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”

Luke 2:27b-32 When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.”

Peace is such a wonderful yet elusive thing for folks today. We tend to look at the chaos surrounding us and ask “Is this the best it will be?” Even our health sometimes fails us and we can’t even escape the turmoil living in our own bodies.

The Bible tells us that at the perfect place and time a baby was born in the midst of a situation that did not lend itself to calmness and security. Yet, this newborn was the one who was to be known as the “Prince of Peace.”

Today we know Him as Jesus. The one who is trustworthy and faithful. In a world of empty promises he stands by His word. It seems almost too easy to think peace is available in one person. Shouldn’t we have to work harder for it? The answer is a profound “No.”

All that is required is to follow. The gospel of Luke tells us that Jesus will “guide our feet into the way of peace.” Why follow anyone else?

This advent season let us follow not the hectic pace that people tell us to follow. Rather let us follow a Prince, the Prince of Peace.

Prayer:

Dearest Father,

Praying for peace is like asking to be fed when the food is right in front of us. You are the Prince of Peace. You are our Savior and Lord. In You we have nothing to fear. Help us to ignore the fear that creeps into our lives so that we may experience more of Your peace. Lead us to the place where we may listen, wait, and enjoy the peace that passes all understanding. Thank you Father for Your constant love and watch care over us.

In Your Precious name we pray,

Amen