The Gospel of Peace

Last night, Judi and I did something we do every Christmas season.  We printed a list of holiday lights and decorations, heated some spiced cider, then drove through the neighborhoods, trying to find each one. 

We checked off every find as we sipped our warm drink.  Reindeer on roof. Check.  Spiral Christmas tree.  Check.  Grinch.  Check.

But one thing that evaded us was a "PEACE" sign.  We saw many that said "JOY", "Merry Christmas", "Happy Holidays", and even one that said "HOPE", but not one that said "PEACE".

I was surprised, and I hope that peace is not a forgotten part of the gift of Jesus, because the good news is actually called "the gospel of peace" (Ephesians 6:15). 

Also, the song, "Oh Holy Night", contains the wonderful line:
"His law is love, and His gospel is peace."

Let's always remember that God and sinner are reconciled.  There is no striving with God.  We are one with Him.  

Let's remember that we are loved as we are.  We are God's children and we belong in His house.  We can have peace with who we are.

Let's remember that God has extended the same grace to everyone, so we also give that grace, and we can find peace with one another.

Isn't peace a wonderful and powerful gift? Jesus truly brought peace on earth and good will toward mankind.  I believe that this peace will continue to spread from heart to heart.  Love will find a way.

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." - Luke 2:14