No.24 Prince of Peace

Today, on the eve of Christ’s birthday, I offer peace.

• Peace to the lady who hit me with her shopping cart — didn’t need that ankle anyway

• Peace to the grinch who yelled at me in the line — don’t make go Cindy Lou Who on you.

• And peace to the little girl who lost her mom in Target — Your crocodile tears are killing me

I’m only half joking. But more importantly…

Among the names of God that Isaiah prophesied in chapter 9 were Wonderful Counselor (see day 22, click here) and Prince of Peace.

There is a difference between the peace we find in Jesus and the peace we find in ourselves. Take a deep breath, stretch, relax, rest—those are all good, important, momentary acts of sanity. But Jesus gives us peace with our Creator. We were at enmity with God because of sin; we were not created for death. Jesus’ blood is the peacemaker and brings us back to life.

That, friends, is the peace that surpasses knowledge — too wonderful. (Philippians 4:7).

And, it’s this peace that can rule our hearts (Colossians 3:15) and overflow into the details of our lives. Like, marriage, relationships, bills, waiting, parenting, work, and even the Christmas hustle and bustle.

One more thing. Isaiah’s prophecy says, “…of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end.” (Isaiah 9) It’s not just an everlasting peace; it’s a peace and kingdom that is ever-increasing. There is no worry of an ending. There is no chance of scarcity. It’s not a limited edition nor a seasonal deal. It’s always in stock, and it only gets better.

We are co-heirs with Christ, the Prince of Peace. We carry this mind-blowing, life-giving, overcoming peace, and the world around us needs it.

Jesus, thank you for making peace for us through the cross. Come, rule our hearts and bring all your peace with you! Holy Spirit, teach us how to use it.