“I have said these things to you while I am still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”
When we slow down and look around, we see great conflicts and wide human suffering, here and across the world. When we slow down and look around, we are struck by the enormous difficulties that can occur in individual lives.
Such situations could make anyone despondent. But there is also a parallel flowing of human compassion, generously-offered aid and support, and a love that overcomes or sustains in any circumstance . That goodness comforts the troubled heart.
Each Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ, Prince of Peace, is celebrated. Because of his life and message, the possibility of peace is a reality even as it appears that the world has gone awry. For those who see with a wider vision, there is a greater power at work in our disturbing world. It is God, who continues to hold fast to God’s floundering creation. The peace and Presence promised by Jesus will prevail, for we are not left alone.
For years, many people sang this popular folk song:
“Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me. Let there be peace on earth,
the peace that was meant to be. With God as our Father, brothers (sisters)
all are we. Let us walk with our brothers in perfect harmony…”
That song expresses a hope for the peace offered through Jesus’ words, but it also reminds us that we are to become daily bearers of peace to those that have little peace. May peace on earth, in human hearts and lives, begin afresh each day through us by the power of the Holy Spirit!
Prayer: Lord, as we remember the birth of the Prince of Peace, we are filled with a gratitude that is both humbling and hopeful. Even though the world is peppered still with external threats and inner turbulence, it is also laced with hope and love. Even though human life contains mistakes, mishaps, and mixed-up people, we are nevertheless upheld by your promised Presence. Move through our lives, dear Lord. As we are given your peace, enable us to become bearers of that peace to others and the world. In Christ’s holy name, we pray. Amen.
Written by Rev. Robin Gantz
What am I passionate about at Heritage?
I am passionate about the outreach ministry that embodies the teachings of Christ here at Heritage…people putting their faith into action to create a better world! I am proud of our youth groups and their involvement, future leaders in the faith!
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