Give Peace A Chance
We are the ones who choose whether to be a part of making peace within the realm of our existence or to bring hostility.
It is easy enough to look at world events and have opinions that dictate the direction of actions on the world stage, but what steps do we take to bring order, peace, and healing into the lives around us? What chance are we giving peace and health to take root in our homes and families, among our friends and in our workplace?
The World Seeks It
At times it seems that our world is desperate for a place that they can rest… they run from the war and the upheaval of despots. Sometimes there is no place to run, and the groans and cries of the oppressed become an overwhelming sound of grief.
Sometimes the silence of lost hope is all that fills the air. Where is the answer when surrounded by such circumstances?
Corrie Ten Boom, in her concentration camp experience, came face to face with such a question.
Her StoryJesus did not promise to change the circumstances around us. He promised great peace and pure joy to those who would learn to believe that God actually controls all things.
Peace Begins with Us
If peace does not rule inside our hearts, how can we bring it outside of us?
Jesus has a name that expresses one of his attributes: Prince of Peace. He rules with the purpose and outcome of an end of enmity. He brings justice and equity, so that all around him settles into its proper place of harmony.
When Christ rules, peace is outcome.
God sent His Son to bring reconciliation, and this is what we celebrate during Advent. We make ourselves ready to come to terms with the Holy, Almighty God, who created us.
Is your heart  prepared for peace?
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Have you considered St. Paul’s admonition?
Let rejoicing take hold in your consciousness, and look to God for the peace that will pass understanding, that will permeate your life and flow into the lives of those around you.
The real gifts of Christmas are in the joy, the peace, and the good news of Jesus.
The Carol for Today
It Came Upon A Midnight Clear
