12/18/2011  Prince of Peace:  Isaiah 9:1-7

My Prince of Peace - In the rush of the holiday season we must pry minds off the beast of this world, the tinsel and parties, and look intently to the majestic and humble King. He is the Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. His counsel is perfect and life giving although at times very difficult to follow. Yet, at His heart is the desire to give me life.

God is the giver of peace and He teaches me what is best for me (Isaiah 48:17). He is the giver of peace and rewards with peace when we walk according to His commands. “Great peace have they who love your law; nothing can make them stumble.” (Ps 119:165) On the other side if we do not walk by His commands, peace will elude us or be an unknowable stranger. (Is 59:8)

The condition of peace is that we follow God’s commands. The greatest and first condition of knowing true peace is coming to Jesus Christ; God the Father’s one and only Son offers forgiveness and new life. “Christ Himself has brought us peace.” (Eph 2:14) By His wounds on the cross and sacrifice of Himself, we have been made whole, sins forgiven, new life given.

Why not come to Christ today? Why not give your greatest fear to Him now? Since He has the power to live, die, and take up his life again, He is able to save completely those who come to Him. He wants to bring you peace.

“Glory to God in the highest; and on earth, peace to those on whom His favor rests.” Lk 2:14