Waiting in Peace

 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.  John 16:33

We live in a nation divided– by everything from demographic categories to personal preferences.  However, there is another conflict that exists that no efforts on our part can reconcile–our human condition.  Sin has made us enemies of God, separating us from Him.  And we are incapable of bridging that chasm that our condition has created.  Yet, we can be at peace because of the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus.  Christ Himself is our peace – peace between God and His wayward children, committing to us the ministry of reconciliation so that we might be united in Him.

Zechariah spoke of how his son, John, would go before the Lord to prepare His way.  The One who could come after John would be the sunrise that brings light to those in darkness and guides us in “the way of peace.”  Our Lord Jesus Christ is the way, and He is the peace.  He is the peace which the world cannot give.  He is the embodiment of peace and good will of the Father toward His children.

We certainly experience tribulation and conflict in this world.  However, Christ has indeed overcome the world.  By his mercy and grace, He freely gives to us the peace of sins forgiven.  As Paul writes, “Since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1)  As you hear, read, listen, sing, and pray God’s Word in the coming days, may God fill you with peace through Christ.  True peace has only been achieved through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and the victory over death and the grave through His resurrection.  May the peace of Christ rule in your hearts in these final days of Advent!

Prayer - Stir up your power, O Lord, and come. Help us by your great might, that whatever is hindered by our sins may be speedily accomplished for your glory; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Fraternally in Christ,

President Lee Hagan