Peace In Christ #
SCRIPTURE READING — MICAH 5:2
1 John 3:8 — The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.
Over the previous year, many of us have either seen or personally witnessed extreme suffering and loss, including immediate family members and relatives passed on from this world, false promises, disease, crime on the streets, global hunger, and cruelty. Where is the peace that God has promised to bring?
Sin, corruption, and death were introduced into our world a very long time ago as a direct result of the activities of the devil as well as Adam and Eve’s disobedience to God. However, God’s response was to send Jesus, who is known as the Prince of Peace. The Son of God arrived on earth with the sole purpose of putting an end to the activities of the devil. The work that the devil has done in this world, as well as in our own lives, is being destroyed by God through the Prince of Peace. He is redeeming and regenerating His children even as He works to restore creation.
Kingdom Alignment #
This is a conflict between kingdoms. The birth of Jesus saw the beginning of the conflict. The decisive victory came at the cross, and it was accomplished through the resurrection of Jesus. When Christ comes back, the complete peace of God’s reign will finally arrive on earth. The Garden of Eden was destroyed, but God, acting through Jesus, brought about a new heaven and a new earth.
The kingdom of God is the place where God’s peace may be found. Are you a member of the royal family? Because Jesus Christ won the battle and made you safe in life and in death, you, as a child of God, can find peace in this shattered world. This is because Jesus has given you victory over sin and death. You may also serve the Redeemer by living your life in such a manner that brings healing, wholeness, and peace to places where there is brokenness.
PRAYER #
We give thanks to you, Father, for sending your Son Jesus to destroy the work of the devil. We pray that you will fill us with your peace as we work to establish our calling and act as peacemakers in your kingdom. Amen.
