Prince of Peace

image courtesy photobucket.com

Gleaning from his sermon, I took notes as Pastor Carl read from Luke chapter two, where Caesar Augustus had made a decree that all were to journey to their city of lineage to be taxed.

Mary and Joseph traveled from Galilee, and arrived at Bethlehem but there was NO room in the inn, however they were offered lodging in a stable, which they graciously accepted.  Mary being great with child, and while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

600 years prior to this time, the prophet Isaiah proclaimed that the Savior would be born of a Virgin in the city of Bethlehem and that his name shall be called “The Prince of Peace.”

image courtesy photobucket.com

That starry night, the Angels sang; “Glory to God in the highest, Peace on Earth, Good Will to men.”

Shepherds tending their flocks saw and heard the angels and were extremely frightened. “Fear not,” the Angels told them, “for unto you this day is born a Savior in the city of David.”

These poor lowly shepherds gladly received this news and quickly left their flocks and went in search of the new born baby. Finding him, they bowed down and worshiped the Christ child Jesus.

One of our Christmas Carols we love to sing is: "Hark the herald angels sing; Glory to the newborn King! Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled"

About 40 days hence the child was taken to the temple in Jerusalem for a purification ceremony and was received by Simeon the High Priest who blessed the child and prophesied that he would be pierced as well as Mary's heart. Simeon said, "Now I can die in Peace for I have seen the salvation of the Lord."

The entire life of Jesus was one complete peace offering.  He forgave sinners and told them to go in Peace.  Jesus came as a servant and washed the feet of his disciples commanding them to do likewise and to serve one another.  Jesus then told his disciples, “My peace I give unto you.”

Peace is a gift of God.  Peace is one of the fruit of the Holy Spirit.  Peace was never intended to keep to ourselves. We are called to be Peace-Makers.

There are times we encounter “Trouble Makers,” in our friends, our family, our work place, and even in our church. There are six things God hates, and one of these is persons who sow discord and division. Hurtful words send forth dissension among the brethren.

We enjoy harmony and a peaceful atmosphere. It is good to be surrounded by those who care for us and are forgiving and able to overlook our faults. We need to love and be loved, to serve and be served, to forgive and be forgiven. To live in Peace, and plant seeds of peace.

It is true that we reap what we sow. What goes around - - comes around!

May we ever sow peace and follow after the Prince of Peace.

Linked up today with Hear it on Sunday

And with Evatt at: Beautiful Messy Mondays