As we journey through Advent and approach Christmas, we can enjoy the many Christmas Carols that we sing at this time of year. This week as I was going around our local supermarket, I was reminded that once again we are nearing the end of the year. The shelves were full of Christmas goodies and despite myself I was tempted to buy some mince pies and a Christmas pudding, both of which in the past I made myself, but now resorted to buying ready-made ones.
Later as I sat with a coffee and a warm mince pie, I was thankful for all that I have, and as my mind wandered, I thought about those who don’t have what they need – the homeless, the lonely, those who don’t have enough to eat. Despite our attempts at supporting charities in this country there are still those who go without. This year we have seen too much violence on our streets, and in our world and the sadness of lives lost as a result. Young lives, with so much potential snuffed out, families left in shock and grieving. So many needs and so much to fix.
I have veered away from a traditional Carol for this reflection by choosing a modern worship song, not typically ‘Christmas themed’. ‘Prince of Peace’ sang by Hillsong isn’t obviously about the Christmas season but does remind us of the peace that we can find in Jesus Christ. The lyric of the song reminds us that Jesus should be central to us all year, in everything that we do, not just at Christmas.
The song starts by getting us to think about ourselves with the phrase ‘My heart a storm, clouds raging deep within”, acknowledging our internal struggles and turmoil, that could - if allowed - consume us, disempower us, instead of arming us with the strength to make change. It reminds us of our own frailty and the storms of life we face. But it then goes on to remind us that our anchor and refuge in a storm can be found in Jesus, our Prince of Peace.
The chorus reminds us that Jesus offers us a peace that goes far beyond mere tranquillity and temporary relief. It is a peace that is never ending. It tells us that God has a perfect plan for us and Jesus’s coming keeps us focused on what is important and reminds us to cast our burdens on Him. It conveys the message that we can find solace and rest by turning to Him. Jesus is the original Peacemaker. On the cross he gave His life for us and brought peace now and forever. “Prince of Peace” is the Hebrew Shar Shalom, meaning “the one who removes all peace-disturbing factors and secures peace” for us, which sets Him apart from the rulers of the past and today, whose reign depended on conquests rather than the ultimate sacrifice on the cross.
“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 Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end”.
(Isaiah 9:6-7)
So, as we decorate our trees, and light our candles this Christmas, let Jesus be central to our celebrations and our prayers to Jesus, our Prince of Peace, include prayers for all those who do not have a voice, and a request for peace in our world.
Kathy Shaw
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