The Advent of Peace

The older I get, the more I believe that chaos, fear, and turmoil are choices. Don’t get me wrong, that is not always true. Still, we often decide to engage in negativity instead of choosing to walk away. Experiencing Peace is a choice I make every day, and living in that Peace is possible because God says it is.

“Don’t worry about anything; pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s Peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.” Philippians 4:6-7 

 Melanie and I have experienced much turmoil and chaos this year. Much of it is based on the decisions and choices of those we love. I am certainly not saying we could have avoided it; I am saying we chose to engage with it instead of letting them learn from it and deal with it. The Peace of God seemed far away, nonexistent, or was it? Maybe we were looking for a feeling or solution rather than focusing on our Savior. Maybe Peace was there all along; we just chose something else. 

“Let the Peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body, you are called to live in Peace. And always be thankful.” Colossians 3:15 
In this Season of Advent, we are reminded that the Prince of Peace came to save us from ourselves and intervene in this world of sin, suffering, and struggle. Jesus Christ offers Peace in any and every situation. Peace isn’t something we can produce; Peace is found in the person of Christ through the power of the Spirit. Receiving Peace is a decision we make. Next time you have a choice, look for Peace. He is there! 
“For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called:  
Wonderful Counselor,  
Mighty God,  
Everlasting Father,  
Prince of Peace. 
His government and its Peace will never end!” 

Gene Shelton

Adult Ministry Pastor