Christmas Greetings

RON HAMILTON, CCCC CONFERENCE MINISTER

The angel’s message to the shepherds is commonly repeated on cards and greetings.

“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
(Luke 2:14)

People cling to the promise of peace. Jesus was born at a time that was called the Pax Romana (Roman peace) but there was unrest among the Jews due to the occupation of foreign rulers. We live in a time where peace accords are brokered but are short lived. For generations people have looked to the promise of the Messiah, coming as the “Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

This angel’s announcement points us upward and forward. God receives the glory for the gift of His Son, born as the Savior of the world. Paul says, “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15) The peace of Christ is promised to those “on whom his favor rests.” It is our responsibility to respond to the gift of salvation and receive Jesus as Savior and Lord. Only then can we experience the peace that “transcends all understanding.” (Philippians 4:7)

The promise of “peace on earth” is not empty words to those who place their faith in Jesus. We live in a broken world with broken hopes and dreams of wholeness and peace. The church has the unique opportunity to speak peace into disappointment and demonstrate wholeness in the face of brokenness. Followers of Jesus experience the shalom of God having peace with God and extending peace to others.