Thursday, December 14, 2023
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger. 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! Luke 2:11-14 ESV
Peace
This week of Advent the focus is on Peace. Jesus Christ, the King of Kings, brings peace to all who trust in Him. He is the only king who can give peace. Earthly kings may have been able to do great things for their kingdoms, make peace, and represent their subjects, but none could do what Jesus does for us. He is an advocate for us in the presence of God, interceding when we don't have words. He has sealed the gap between us and God forever, and no one can have a relationship with God without the gift of salvation that He gives.
In ancient times, if one kingdom wanted to conquer another, it was up to the king to either go into battle or make peace. A king who cared for his subjects would not risk the lives of his people unless it was absolutely necessary; therefore, a good king would make peace if it was at all possible. Therefore, the subjects of a kingdom depended on their king, not only to be strong for them in battle, but to be wise enough to know when it was necessary. The peace found within a kingdom was determined by the connection the subjects had to their king.
The announcement of the birth of Jesus came with these words, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased” (Luke 2:14). When the King of Kings entered our world, the result was that mankind could have peace with God through Him. Jesus would fight the battle against sin that mankind could not, bringing victory to all who trust in what He accomplished. Jesus represents us before God in His authority to bring restoration and peace to our relationship with God.
Not only did the birth of Jesus offer us peace with God, it ushered in the ability for those who belong to Him to have peace and find strength in His name. As subjects of His heavenly kingdom we can know peace in the face of adverse circumstances because our King, Jesus Christ, is the victor over death, hell, and the grave – the worst this world can throw at us.
