As a child hearing the Christmas story, I thought peace on earth described the activity of the night Jesus was born. After all, the angel said, “Do not be afraid.” I imagined that baby Jesus didn’t cry, and that the barn animals remained still, and that riding a donkey when pregnant sounded fun. Maybe that is what happened. But as I’ve grown as a child of God, I understand that peace on earth means more than a divinely quiet night. In their praises, the heavenly host announced that the long-expected spotless lamb could finally be seen and heard. And peace (prosperity, well-being, health, completeness, safety) between God and man is now restored through the Way, the Truth, the Life. It’s an invitation to rest (bask, surrender from work, cease striving) in this favor, this gift from God to us.
Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth among those whom his favor rests!
Luke 2:14
Brave Sparrow 