Peace on Earth 

   “Peace shall come at a time known only to the Lord.  And it will not last a day or a night as we calculate time; there will be light everlasting, infinite glory, unbroken peace and undisturbed rest.” (Thomas á Kempis, “The Imitation of Christ.) 

   In a small town in Israel long ago a child was born.  He appeared to be like every other child, tiny and helpless.  Like all newborns He was totally dependent upon His mother and earthly father for His very life.  Few took notice, but many would come to know Him.

   This was not just another child, this was the Son of God, Jesus Christ the Messiah.  At the time determined He came to offer salvation to a world with no hope of such a thing.  The gates to heaven had been sealed by sin and humanity was unable to pay the price for those sins and reopen the gates.  Jesus came to make payment for the sins of all and to offer eternal life.

   He did not come to bring peace on earth.  Rather, He said, “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace but a sword.” (Matt 10: 34).  His message caused great division.  Those who were more concerned with themselves and their position refused to accept His message of love.  They chose instead to accuse Him with lies and demand His crucifixion.

   But the story isn’t over.  Jesus is the Prince of Peace and He will bring peace to the world.  When the time is right He will come again, bringing peace and eternal life to all those who believe.  It could be tomorrow; it could be a thousand years from now.  God alone knows the time.

   As we look to the manger and adore the infant lying there let us keep this promise in mind.  The child born to Mary will return in glory.  He will make all things new.  He will bring peace upon the earth. 

We look to Christmas with joy.

We celebrate the day of Your birth.

You will come again in glory.

Amen, come soon Lord Jesus. 

Amen