[written by Jessica Pentsil]
If we observe the events surrounding the birth of Jesus, we will see that the times were far from peaceful. A city was in uproar under the rule of a vengeful king seeking to destroy a prophesied King who threatened his reign. Many lives were lost, and where there was the expectation of a promised hope, confusion and doubt likely took its place. Amid it all, you find a brave couple following the leading of God despite the chaos around them. Looking at the circumstances that surround you, peace is not always a guarantee. If it were, our souls would be constantly swayed at the slightest inconvenience or disruption.
When the angel appeared to Mary about Jesus’s birth, we don’t see a foretelling of the events that would follow. Mary inquires how it will take place, and the angel reassures her that all will come to pass by the power of the Holy Spirit. It is only after Jesus is born that Joseph begins to have dreams from God about how they would survive under King Herod’s rule. Through their example of faith, we find that peace is also not found in our plans, or the security of knowing things in advance.
If peace is not solely found in our circumstances, or knowing everything that is to come in the future, where else can our peace be found? Jesus reminds us how in this life, there “will be tribulation” – this is a guarantee (John 16:33). However, in Him, we can have access to the peace that He promises. It is a peace we possess that is not determined by what we go through. Jesus’ peace “surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7) and keeps us in faith with full confidence that He is with us. As you listen to this song, consider all that Jesus went through in order to bring God’s peace to us here on earth.
Isaiah 9:6 prophesies of who He is to us and who He will always be: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
A blessing for you:
Whether you know that you need the Lord’s peace, or you’re not sure whether you’ve ever truly known the peace of God, may you remember and turn to Jesus who is well acquainted with everything you could ever face.