The night Jesus was born in Bethlehem, peace came to earth in the form of a baby. He brought a peace that people had never known before. The last week of Advent is centered on Peace.
We long for peace, but it often feels so far off. Peace can be so elusive because it has so much to do with the state of our hearts. Everything around us this time of year is merry and bright, but inside, our hearts are often breaking. I asked some friends what brings them peace, and if this time of year is typically peaceful or not, and received such interesting answers. For most people, this time of year brings about much more unrest than the rest of the year. The busyness and hurriedness of everything makes it so hard to be at peace.
We continue to look for things or people to bring us peace, but often find ourselves lost in the shuffle. We are a people longing for peace.
Peace on earth.
Peace in our hearts.
Peace in our homes.
Jesus is the One who brings peace. As we celebrate His birth and await His return, we must continue to pray for peace.
“Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Your heart must not be troubled or fearful.”
John 14:27
Jesus spoke peace throughout Scripture. His desire is that we would be at peace with one another. When I look at the state of our world, and what’s happening in cities like Aleppo, my heart breaks. Jesus, bring peace. If you don’t feel at peace with other people, what can you do to be one who brings peace? If you’re dreading spending time with family around the Christmas holidays, how can you be a peacemaker?
The world around you could be falling apart, and because of Jesus, you can have peace. If you find yourself without peace today, ask Jesus. He wants to bring peace to your heart and life. Being in relationship with Him is the greatest gift of peace I’ve ever received.
In the last verse of the hymn “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” we find the lyrics:
“Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace!
Hail the Sun of Righteousness!
Light and life to all he brings,
Risen with healing in his wings.
Mild, he lays his glory by,
born that we no more may die,
born to raise us from the earth,
born to give us second birth.”
As we prepare our hearts for the Advent of Jesus, may He fill you with all peace as you pursue Him. Keep your eyes fixed on Him, no matter what may come. He longs to bring peace to each of us.
Jesus is our peace.
Mary Margaret Collingsworth serves as an Event Project Coordinator at Lifeway Christian Resources and coordinates training events for women in leadership. She has a passion to see women engaged in ministry and living out their calling. Mary Margaret loves teaching God’s Word, Mexican food, calling Nashville home, and hosting Lifeway’s {MARKED} podcast. Follow her on Twitter: @marymargaretc
