Peace!


For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; 
And the government will rest on His shoulders; 
And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. 
There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace… 
(Isaiah 9:6-7a NASB)

And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 
"Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace
among men with whom He is pleased." 
(Luke 2:13-14 NASB)

As I reflect on the state of our world, the goings on in my community (like Black Friday madness!), and even in my own home and relationships, peace seems often elusive, and, at times, downright impossible.
Yet, we seek peace, we hold out for the prospect of it, for the hope of it.

If we have not peace in our own hearts, our own relationships, and in our communities, 
on what basis can we hope for peace in our world?

One of the things I have been learning this year is the relevance and sufficiency of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in and for all of life.  In a recent study on the topic of conflict, God reminded me of the following:

  • God is a God of reconciliation, and reconciliation is central to the Gospel (2 Corinthians 5:18-20).
  • God is a God of peace (Philippians 4:9), peace is central to the Gospel (see above and Romans 5:1), and Jesus Himself is our peace (Ephesians 2:14).
  • Relationships are all about conflict resolution, and if we are to be like Christ, we must be really good at conflict resolution; we must be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9).
  • Peace with God is a prerequisite to peace with others (Ephesians 2:15)

My prayer for you would that the gospel would work peace through you in your identity and work its way out in your worship, community, and the mission of God where you are.

Those of you who know me know that I am somewhat of a fanatic when it comes to Christmas music.  I just love it!  One of my recent favorites is Casting Crowns' rendition of 'I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day'.  You may know that this was penned during the American Civil War when peace, to say the least, seemed elusive.  Enjoy this beautiful cry and hope for God's peace.



God is not dead nor does He sleep.  Indeed!


In His Grip,

Mark


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