Read Luke 1:26-30

After several angelic messages to Mary (“the Lord is with you”) and to Joseph (“She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins”), the heavenly messengers continued to proclaim the good news of peace on earth (Matthew 1:21). When Jesus was born, an angel appeared to the shepherds saying:

“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!’”

Where are you getting your peace from during this Advent season? From trimmings, events, eggnog, and presents under the tree — or from the Prince of Peace himself? Peace comes from God’s goodness. There will always be good news and bad news around you. But God is good all the time, and he is with you all the time. He’s right beside you on your journey through life. His goodness, unmerited favor, and presence bring peace. The Prince of Peace came to bring peace on earth. From the Christmas carol “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” the proclamation of peace is sung: “We hear the Christmas angels / The great glad tidings tell, / O come to us, abide with us, / Our Lord Immanuel. / O morning stars together / Proclaim the holy birth / And praises sing to God the King / And peace to men on earth.”

Reflection and Response

Recite this blessing from Numbers 6:24-26, personalize it with your name, and receive His peace. Put others’ names in it as a Christmas blessing.

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.”

By Donna Burns  

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