Advent for many of us is a Christian tradition preparing for the commemoration of the birth of Jesus. As a kid growing up, it wasn’t something in which we really participated. However, as a pastor for most of my adult life, it had been a part of the church calendar. For this next month of Saturdays, I thought we’d consider Peace, Hope Joy and Love. These four topics are often associated with Advent.
Renewal Prayer Network Pastor Jay Richmond
Isaiah 9:6 says “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulders, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” This passage points out one the ways Jesus is known - Prince of Peace. But what does this have to do with unity? Well, we know we have peace with God (Romans 5:1). If we have peace with God, we should have peace with each other. Luke 2:14 says ““Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased!” So, is the Lord pleased with us? Based on our performance? No - but on Jesus’ righteousness. Because of Jesus we have peace in unity with one another.
Look what Paul writes in Ephesians 2:14-16 “For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing
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wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in Himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility.” Because of Jesus, we are at peace with God and each other. May we prepare for Jesus’ 2nd coming by living in the peace He has provided. Isn’t it interesting that we were never told to create the unity but to maintain it in the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4)
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the peace we have with You and one another through Jesus. May it be so evident in our lives that many who don’t know you yet may be drawn to you.