Peace, Right Where You Are

Scripture:

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2:14) 

Reading:

When Jesus was born, a multitude of angels gave official notice to humanity, praising God and crying out, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2:14) 

What on earth must that have been like? Terrifying, mesmerizing? We do know the announcement ignited those who heard it to immediately jump off their hamster wheels and head straight to Bethlehem to see what God had revealed (Luke 2:15).

We have our own hamster wheels too, don’t we? The monotony of routines and schedules, the never-ending to-do list, the striving for peace and order in our lives. 

In the midst of all that spinning, pause for just a moment to remember God is with you. He is pleased with you. He is your peace.

This is what the angelic announcement points us toward. Christ was not born to bring a temporary calm, but a lasting peace that goes beyond our efforts and even our understanding (Philippians 4:7).

The word used for peace in these verses stems from a Greek verb meaning to join. When you look to your Savior and Source, when you pause to join your heart, soul, mind, and strength to Jesus instead of your relentless churning, His peace begins to flow into your life. 

You do not have to go somewhere special and wait for God to show up. You do not have to beg or scan the heavens for angels. Just pause. He is with you right where you are. Your peace is rooted in relationship with Jesus.

“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1)

Scripture shows us that the peace Christ’s birth brought did not end in the manger. It is offered through Jesus’ own words, and secured by His life, death, and resurrection. Today, take a moment to experience the peace you have with Jesus and His peace within you.

Your Turn:

1. How does knowing that God is pleased with you in Christ challenge the way you live?

2. What parts of your heart, thoughts, or desires feel divided from Christ, and what would it look like to intentionally re-join them to Him in prayer?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, You are the Prince of Peace. I am so thankful to live under Your reign. Please recalibrate my heart, soul, mind, and strength to Your Presence and peace as I live today. I love You. Amen.