Pastoral Devotion for December – The Prince of Peace

Read Isaiah 9:2-7

It is difficult to imagine living in a world of peace. From the time Adam and Eve took a bite from the forbidden fruit, the world has been anything but peaceful. The struggle of human disobedience brought with it conflict between families, communities and nations. Everywhere we turn we see the result of sin and the powers that defy God. The only cure for this sickness is God’s divine mercy and grace. When the kingdom of God is fully revealed to believers, only then will we understand what it means to live in a world of peace. This does not mean, however, that God’s people cannot receive His peace while living in a fallen and broken world.
Long before the birth of Christ, the prophets of God announced the coming of the Messiah who would rule God’s kingdom with power and might, bringing justice and righteousness to those who believe. The prophet Isaiah says his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. When he comes in his fullness and glory, his kingdom will have no end. Yet, even as the people of God await the forever coming of their king, God entered our earthly realm born as a human child unto Mary and Joseph. This Prince of Peace would first take upon himself human flesh, live among his people and offer his life as sacrifice to atone for the sin of the world.
Throughout our history, the Church has longed for the peace of God’s kingdom to be revealed in all its glory. Until such time when Jesus comes again, the Church has the assurance of God’s mercy and grace. We live with the peace of knowing that through Christ our sins are forgiven. As followers of our Lord and Savior, we strive to share the good news of the gospel with all whom we meet. We hear Jesus’ command to love one another, to feed the hungry, care for the sick, bring shelter to the poor and welcome the stranger into our midst. As we do these things, we ask our Father in heaven to continually strengthen us in faith and give us the will to do them, so that all people might one day live in the peace of Christ.

O Prince of Peace, come to your people and fill our hearts with gladness. Bring your peace to our world forever. Amen.