Week Two - Peace

It is in the midst of turmoil for God's people that Isaiah speaks of a new kingdom ruled by a king who will bring peace and justice. A king who comes from David's family and bears the names that come from our Heavenly Father - Wonderful Counselor and Mighty God.

A king who would not come in Isaiah's time, but would be born many centuries later in a stable. King Jesus who would usher in a kingdom of peace by ascending the throne of the cross, dying for our sins, and giving us eternal peace with God.

In this Advent season, we anticipate our Prince of Peace, Jesus, even though we still experience the dark moments of this life. Jesus is not a king who sits removed or indifferent to what we are facing – the impending diagnosis, the loneliness of the holidays, or the challenges of walking with a loved one with mental health challenges. Instead, He is a king who offers us Himself in the midst of life’s uncertainties and extends His eternal promise of peace: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled or fearful.”

May we enter into the peace that Jesus alone can give us this Advent season.