Author: Debbie McPartland
“Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” Luke 2:14
On this second week of Advent, we reflect on a message from Luke 2:14: God embracing Peace while we wait for the arrival of Jesus Christ, the most Divine gift of all. God is worthy of all the Glory and Praise because of his plan to bring humanity back into a “Right Relationship” with Him through Christ. Through the birth of Jesus, a deeper and lasting peace has been made possible for us all.
For me, Peace means a complete state of well-being, a personal presence of God in my Heart and Soul. This is one of the highest gifts of all! A deep assurance that all is right in the world, even if only for a moment. In today’s society amidst all of the hustle & bustle throughout the holiday season, Peace provides a sense of Calmness as we live under God's Favor through Jesus Christ.
The Hebrew word “Shalom” means Peace (not just the absence of trouble or war) but an all-encompassing sense of wholeness, prosperity and welfare. Shalom was often used by Jesus to bless his followers as a gift from God, to wish them Peace and Divine well-being and the wholeness that comes from living in harmony with God's presence and purpose.
When we surrender our fears to Christ, he restores peace in our hearts, in our homes and in the world as a whole.
Luke 2:14 reminds us that God's favor rests on those who walk in Obedience with a Righteous “Spirit” (Hebrew word Ruakh) like the Angels and Shepherds who were awaiting the arrival of the Messiah.
When you have Peace you can also experience Joy & Love that flows through your Heart, allowing you to radiate Christ's presence to others that surround you in life. God shows his goodwill towards those who put their faith in Jesus.
Glory to God in the highest and Peace to his People on earth.
How can you find your inner peace throughout this Advent season?
Pause, reflect on God's Promise and welcome his Peace into your Heart through Christ the Prince of Peace.