The life of Jesus began and ended with a message of peace and the instruction to “fear not” and be brave.
“I have told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world you will have troubles. But be brave! I have defeated the world!” John 16:33 ERV
In light of all that is going on around the world today there is definitely a need for the Prince of Peace.
Can you imagine being a shepherd, probably dosing off for the night when the entire night sky lit up? Talk about UFO’s – this was an invasion! No place to run, no place to hide and then came the message:
” All at once an angel came down to them from the Lord, and the brightness of the Lord’s glory flashed around them. The shepherds were frightened. 10 But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid! I have good news for you, which will make everyone happy. 11 This very day in King David’s hometown a Savior was born for you. He is Christ the Lord. 12 You will know who he is, because you will find him dressed in baby clothes and lying on a bed of hay.”
13 Suddenly many other angels came down from heaven and joined in praising God. They said: 14 “Praise God in heaven! Peace on earth to everyone who pleases God.” Luke 2:8-14 CEV
Don’t be afraid – Peace!
This isn’t just a nice little story in a nice little book – these shepherds were real people, and they came face to face with talking angels. Ya, that would make the hair on the back of your neck stand up!
But what is it you’re facing today – a bad medical report, a falling marriage, wayward children, financial failure, world unrest, the collapse of the future you had planned…
Then listen to what Jesus said
“But the Holy Spirit will come and help you, because the Father will send the Spirit to take my place. The Spirit will teach you everything and will remind you of what I said while I was with you. 27 I give you peace, the kind of peace that only I can give. It isn’t like the peace that this world can give. So don’t be worried or afraid.” John 14:26-27 CEV
and finally one of my favorites
“Let the peace that Christ gives control your thinking. It is for peace that you were chosen to be together in one body. And always be thankful.” Colossians 3:15 ERV
This morning as you are looking out on your world, be still and let the peace of God rule in your heart.