In Isaiah 9:6 we discover that the child born to us will be, amongst other wonderful titles, a Prince of Peace. A Prince whose government, and its peace, will never end.
Luke 2 tells us of the angel of the Lord appearing to shepherds, bringing good news to them of the Saviour, the Messiah, born in Bethlehem. Then came a host of angels saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”
These are some of the well-loved passages read during Advent in our church services leading up to Christmas Day. The difficulty is remembering to share what we have celebrated and why, when Christmas is over. Sharing peace and goodwill with difficult people can be a challenge!
Gideon built an altar to Jehovah Shalom - the Lord is Peace - after the Lord reminded Gideon, at Ophrah, that He had been with them throughout their journey, and was still with them. Reassurance we all need in difficult times.
We long for peace in every aspect of our lives, especially in our families, our country, our world. The most important birthplace of peace is in our hearts, for if we have no peace there, we will struggle to find it anywhere.
Just as the wise men were on a journey, searching to find a king, so did the shepherds journey to Bethlehem to find the Christ child, the Saviour. We are on a journey, through Advent, preparing ourselves for the miracle of God coming as one of us. Our prayers are central in our preparation, or should be if His peace is to prepare us for the next phase in our journey of faith.
I share a favourite prayer:
May today there be peace within, May you trust your highest power that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, And pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, And allow your soul the freedom to sing, to dance. It is there for each and every one of you. Amen Teresa of Avila
My prayer:
Lord help us on our journey through Advent to discover anew that enduring peace can only be found in You. Bless our searching as we seek to know You better and accept our thanks and praise that You are our God of Peace. Amen