The Christmas season is a time of year where love is more evident; People become more generous and help the less fortunate in need. A season where people are in a giving spirit and respond not necessarily with just money or gifts. Most of us wish this attitude could spread throughout the entire year.
We turn on the news these days only to remind ourselves why we just polluted our minds with all the negativity of crime, murder, and politics. Peace appears to be left out these days. Our country has become so divisive, to say the least.
In spite of all the distractions, there is a mystery beyond the nice big guy in a red suit and white beard. The mystery of peace pervades even in times of protests, violence, and war. There is a difference between world peace and God’s peace! God’s peace comes from within. I’m reminded of this great mystery, “No Jesus, no peace. Know Jesus, know peace.”
This great mystery of God’s peace, the ‘Prince of Peace.’
“For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall of hostility that separated us.” -Ephesians 2:14 NLT
The mystery of God’s Hope to a hurting, suffering, lost, and dying world.
“The mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” -Colossians 1:26-27NIV
May the mystery of God’s light and the Christ of Christmas brighten your day. Be filled this coming week with faith, hope, and love.
Pastor Andy Provitola