Peace On Earth, Goodwill Toward Men

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas.  Not because the weather has turned frightful or we are roasting chestnuts on an open fire, but because everyone seems stressed out, tired and broke.  Of course this isn’t the reason for the season.  The reason was summed up by the angel who appeared to shepherds keeping watch by night over their sheep – “Tonight in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.”  Well great what does a Savior do?  He brings “peace on earth, goodwill toward men.”
In fact, 700 years before Jesus was born Isaiah the prophet said Christmas was coming.  Not only does God tell Isaiah Christmas is coming he also tells the prophet what this promised child, the Savior of the world, would be called:  Isaiah 9:6 says, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Well, if there is anything the world needs now it is peace.  If there is something that is in limited supply in my life it is peace.  And get this, Jesus says, I will give you peace, in fact I will give you my peace.  The Prince of peace promises to those who submit to his rule and reign over their lives peace!
But get this, peace doesn’t mean the storm doesn’t rage around us.  Peace means we are under the One who redeems and restores our life in spite of the storm.  We are under the One who has come to conquer and reign, who has made peace by defeating death, sin and the grave.  It doesn’t mean things aren’t hard, it means He is with us.
Christmas is a time of great tension.  The pretty lights—contrasting extended nights.  Hopeful anticipation of family and friends gathered to celebrate—contrasted with dashed hearts over loved ones who’ve been lost.  But the promised Savior of the world, the Prince of Peace, tips the scales.  As the Christmas carol refrains:  “The hopes and fears of all the years are met in Thee tonight.”  God breaks into our midst—as Immanuel—God with us, and the desire of our hearts for peace on earth, peace in our hearts, and goodwill toward men are met in Him.
Looking to celebrate the season?  Valencia Hills Community Church invites you to join us December 17, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. for family crafts, photos and goodies and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. for a Christmas concert.  Also join us for Christmas Eve Service 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Christmas morning service 10:30 a.m.
Valencia Hills Community Church is located at 24933 Ave. Stanford in Valencia or find us on the web at www.valenciahills.com.