Peace on Earth and Goodwill toward all Humanity! You likely already know the Hebrew word for peace: shalom. The word shalom occurs over 250 times in the Old Testament. Throughout the Old Testament, God unfolds his plan for establishing his shalom on Earth, through the line of Abraham, God tells his people that they will bless all of humanity. He made “a covenant of peace” with them (Ezekiel 34: 24-25a) and promised to send a Savior. This promised Messiah would be “... called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end” (Isaiah 9:6-7). We know that Christ came to usher in a new era, and that by dying in our place, we can “have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). Today, we take refuge in Jesus’ words: “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). And so, as we reflect on God’s peace, may we be reminded of our role: to actively make peace as we await the second Advent of Jesus Christ.
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