Embrace the Prince of Peace

In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the promise of peace stands as a beacon of hope. This Advent season, we gather to reflect on the profound gift of peace that was birthed with Christ. The speaker illuminated the significance of this peace, contrasting it with the surrounding turmoil of conflict, anxiety, and unrest, reminding us that “peace really is only given meaning in the shadow and threat of war.”

As we delve into Scripture, we discover that the promise of peace is intricately woven into the fabric of biblical prophecy. Isaiah 9 offers a powerful image: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). The birth of Christ comes not in a vacuum but amidst the uncertainty and strife of life, signaling a profound shift from conflict to reconciliation.

Yet, the message of peace is incomplete without confronting the uncomfortable truth that we are often at enmity with God. The speaker encouraged us to wrestle with this reality, acknowledging that many of us don’t see ourselves as hostile toward our Creator. Romans 5:10 lays it bare: “For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.” It is a humbling reminder that before we can accept the peace Jesus offers, we must recognize the extent of our brokenness and the conflict that exists within our hearts.

The speaker outlined two crucial steps in our drift from God—suppression and substitution. Romans 1:18 articulates this struggle: “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness.” We tend to suppress the truth about God, convincing ourselves that our own narratives hold more weight than His. In doing so, we fill our hearts with idols, seeking solace in fleeting substitutes that leave us unfulfilled.

The speaker shared a compelling illustration from the story of Haru Anoda, a Japanese soldier who lived in hiding for 30 years after the end of World War II. The suppression of truth and clinging to false narratives kept him isolated, unaware that peace had already been declared. This powerful story exemplifies our own tendencies to hide from the reality of our need for God’s peace, echoing the invitation to come out from the shadows of self-imposed exile.

The good news is that through Christ, God has taken the initiative to end hostilities. 2 Corinthians 5:18 tells us, “And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation.” God himself is the one reaching out, desiring to transform enemies into friends. This profound act of reconciliation invites us to reclaim our identities from the lies we’ve believed and step into the restorative peace that Christ offers.

As we reflect on the message, let us consider how we can apply these truths in our daily lives. We are called not just to receive peace but to extend it to those around us. How might God be challenging you to reveal His peace to someone who feels like an enemy?

I invite you to spend time in prayer and reflection, asking God to illuminate areas where you may be suppressing truth or replacing Him with substitutes. As we journey through this Advent season, let us embrace the Prince of Peace and share His message of reconciliation with others.

If you are seeking community and fellowship, we warmly invite you to join us at Knox Evangelical Church in Old Strathcona, just north of Whyte Avenue in Edmonton. Check out the Knox Event Calendar for up-to-date news and opportunities to connect. Together, let us proclaim the peace that has been won for us and encourage one another to walk in its light.