The Prince of Peace

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

At the end of each year we often look back at what the last 12 months has contained. Christmas becomes an opportunity for reflection. And this is a year where we have seen much unrest. Polls tell us our country is more polarized than ever. People disagree on many subjects and beliefs. Some of you who read this Christmas Day may be dreading the family get-together, because we are not only divided in our country, but divided in our homes.

How wonderful to read in Isaiah 9:6 about the Jesus of Christmas. Among the names He is given in this verse is the “Prince of Peace.” Because Jesus brings forgiveness of sin, and hope for heaven, He ultimately brings peace to the earth and peace to our hearts. It will be an everlasting peace that will free us from all anxiety for the future, all malice in the present, all grudges from the past.

Maybe you have been seeking such a peace. Not only a peace for our divided nation, but peace in your marriage. Peace at work. Peace with your children. Peace in your finances. Peace in decisions and directions where you must choose. Place your trust in Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate source of peace. He is the Prince of Peace. In Him we will find peace in the place that matters the most—peace for our souls. The peace of knowing our sins are forgiven and we have hope for the future.

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the Prince of Peace. In my anxiety and worry over all that is going on in our world, our nation, in my family and with my friends, help me to rely on Jesus as my helper and guide. Remind me of His everlasting peace, so that I can go through life seeking Him for my every need. Grant me opportunities to make peace in my relationships, and be a peacemaker in situations in which I may be involved, through the power and Person of Jesus. In His name, Amen.