Introduction
In the recent Advent series, we have been reflecting on the themes of hope, joy, and now peace as we await the coming of Christ. The sermons have drawn upon biblical prophecies, which reveal a message of expectation for what God is destined to accomplish. We began with Isaiah 9, where light breaks into darkness; followed by the joyful announcement from the angels regarding the birth of a Savior. This week, we focus on the message of peace as exemplified in the encounter between the angels and the shepherds in Luke 2, which emphasizes that waiting on God is intertwined with hope and the peace He promises to His people.
Main Points
In Luke 2 We Find Shepherds
In Luke 2, we find shepherds watching their flocks by night when an angel appears, declaring a message of peace and goodwill. This moment transforms their fear into joy as they learn of the birth of Christ, who brings salvation.
- The appearance of the angel encapsulates the essence of waiting: even in darkness, God is preparing to fulfill His promises.
- The shepherds respond with urgency, going to witness the very fulfillment of what the angel proclaimed.
- This story illustrates the blessings of faith and the divine assurance that peace is present amidst turmoil.
- Often, we settle for a temporary ceasefire rather than true peace.
For Instance I Shared An Experience
For instance, I shared an experience of arriving at a Christmas party after an argument with my spouse. We put on a façade of joy and peace, but internally, we were unsettled.
- This symbolizes how many of us navigate the holiday season.
- We experience joy and peace superficially while conflicts lie beneath the surface.
- When gatherings end, we are left with unresolved issues.
- True peace, grounded in God’s promises, is not simply about maintaining appearances; it is about a transformative experience rooted in Christ.
Jesus Offers A Radically Different Peace
Jesus offers a radically different peace than the world provides. His peace, as stated in John 14, assures us that it is not the absence of conflict but the presence of God amidst it. When we confront our anxieties and fears, we must remind ourselves that Jesus, as the Prince of Peace, cannot be equated with worldly measures of comfort or success. True peace arises from the assurance of God’s grace and goodwill, an offer available to all who seek to align their lives with Him. There are barriers that hinder us from fully experiencing God’s peace. Sometimes, we allow our feelings of unworthiness to drown out the truth of the gospel.
Accusations From Within Our Struggles Register
Accusations from within our struggles register as disqualification in our hearts, making it difficult to embrace the promises of peace. The reality is we all fall short, yet the birth of Christ symbolizes God’s initiative to extend His peace to us. We must counteract these fears with the assurance that we are loved and accepted by God, who desires our reconciliation. To maintain a posture of peace, we need to preach the gospel to ourselves each day. As the shepherds were messengers of great news, we too are called to communicate and embody this message of peace. Our lives should reflect that we belong to a God who loves us deeply.
Instead Of Succumbing To Worldly Pressures
Instead of succumbing to worldly pressures, we can stand firm in the assurance that our peace does not depend on external circumstances but is rooted in Christ’s eternal message of goodwill toward mankind. As we celebrate this season, let us remember the gifts we exchange represent love and not serve as sources of false security. The true value of a gift lies in its ability to remind us of the giver’s love. In relationships, let us draw closer to one another as we experience God’s love through the blessings we share. Seeking the depth of this connection leads us to appreciate the beauty of peace that originates from God, reflecting His heart for us. We must recognize peace as a multi-layered gift that includes salvation, an assurance of God’s love, and victory over internal and external conflicts.
This Christmas As We Reflect On
This Christmas, as we reflect on the shepherds who were invited into God’s glory, we too should accept the invitation to experience His peace. God’s message is clear: regardless of our past or present struggles, He stands ready to embrace us with open arms. By inviting Christ into our lives, we can access the deep-seated peace that surpasses understanding.
Conclusion
In closing, the message of peace delivered to the shepherds reminds us that despite our circumstances, we can find assurance in God’s promises. As we navigate the joys and tensions of life, let us hold fast to the truth that God's goodwill is ever-present and His peace is accessible to all who believe. By reflecting this peace, we not only enrich our own lives but also serve as bearers of hope and good news to those around us, exemplifying the transformative love that Christ offers.