The Prince of Peace

When Jesus Christ was born, a host of angels proclaimed: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men in whom he is well pleased" (Luke 2,14). As recipients of God's peace, Christians are uniquely called out in this violent and selfish world. The Spirit of God leads Christians to a life of peacemaking, caring, giving and love. In contrast, the world around us is perpetually embroiled in discord and intolerance, be it political, ethnic, religious, or social. Even at this moment, entire regions are threatened with vile resentment and hatred and their consequences. Jesus was describing this great difference that characterizes his disciples when he said to them: "I will send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves" (Matthew 10,16).

The peoples of this world, who are burdened in their way of thinking and acting, cannot find the way to peace. The way of the world is the way of selfishness, greed, envy and hatred. But Jesus said to his disciples: «Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (John 14,27).

Christians are called to be diligent before God, "to pursue that which makes peace" (Romans 14,19) and "to pursue peace with everyone, and sanctification" (Hebrews 1 Cor2,14). They are partakers of all joy and peace: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace, believing that hope may always abound in you through the power of the Holy Spirit" (Romans 15,13).

The kind of peace, "the peace that surpasses all understanding" (Philippians 4,7), transcends separations, differences, feelings of isolation, and the spirit of partiality that people engage in. This peace leads instead to harmony and a sense of a common purpose and destiny - "the unity of spirit through the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4,3).

It means that we forgive those who wrong us. It means that we show mercy to those in need. It further states that kindness, honesty, generosity, humility and patience, all underpinned by love, will mark our relationships with other people. James wrote the following about Christians: "But the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace" (James 3,18). This kind of peace also gives us the guarantee and security in the face of war, pandemic or disaster, and it gives us calm and peace in the midst of tragedy. Christians are not insensitive to life's problems. They have to go through times of tribulation and hurt like everyone else. We have divine succor and assurance that He will sustain us: "But we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8,28). Even when our physical circumstances are murky and dark, the peace of God that is within us keeps us composed, sure and firm, confident and hopeful of Jesus Christ's return to earth when His peace will embrace all the earth.

As we await that glorious day, let us remember the words of the Apostle Paul: «The peace of Christ, to which you were called in one body, reign in your hearts; and give thanks" (Colossians 3,15). The origin of peace is the love that emanates from God! The Prince of Peace - Jesus Christ is where we find that peace. Jesus then lives in you with his peace. You have peace in Christ through the faith of Jesus Christ. You are carried by his peace and you carry his peace to all people.

by Joseph Tkach