Week 4 of Advent- Peace

Week 4 and candle 4 represent peace. The light of the angels reminds us of the Peace that God gives us in Christ.

Peace can mean many different things. At Christmas time, we often hear the words “Peace on Earth,” in songs, on holiday décor and written on many Christmas cards. This phrase came from the verse in Luke 2 that says: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" I’ve been thinking a lot about the phrase, “Peace on Earth.” What’s its actual meaning? What do most of us actually think about this phrase when we hear it? Peace with others is important. World peace, or cooperation between nations sounds wonderful (and I long for the day when this is the case), but the peace that the angels proclaimed is peace with God through His Son Jesus.

When sin entered the world, our relationship with God (the way He had intended it) became fractured. The fellowship between man and God from that moment on (and up until the present) looks much different than when Adam and Eve walked with God in the cool of the day. They had no distractions, they didn’t have a world that was full of sin at every turn, and in their hearts they were completely pure and whole. Much changed for Adam and Eve after that tragic day. That moment in history has had regrettable consequences for the rest of us as well.

Since the Fall of man, humanity has had a frustrated, and at times, very difficult relationship with God. Even as God revealed Himself in different ways (like in the giving of the law) our own desire to live for ourselves became self-evident. For example, in the reality that none could keep the law completely. Even in all of Israel’s sacrifices and offerings, God found no pleasure. Why? It wasn’t what He had desired for those who served Him. God was (and still) looking for a clean and contrite hearts. How was that even possible in our own strength and ability? It isn’t! That’s good news, too. God in His tender love and mercy has a plan that makes peace with Him (and with our selves) possible.

The story of Christmas is one that is full of hope, love, joy and peace. Jesus gives us access to them by entering His creation as a human. The prophet who told of the birth of Jesus said that he would be called the “Prince of Peace.” God once again, came to draw men to Himself so that He could fellowship with them. Peace with God is completely amazing and transcends understanding. Many long for real lasting peace. The only way to have the peace the angels spoke of is to know the Prince of Peace.

Peace with God also allows opportunity to have peace with one another. It also allows us to have peace no matter what life brings. I pray this Christmas that each one of you will experience this amazing peace. Peace is for all on whom His favor rests. Receive this gift of peace!