Isaiah 9.6 – For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Luke 2.12-14 – 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”

It is so easy to get lost in the worry and fear that comes with life. And yet Jesus came to bring us peace. And when Jesus came, people were experiencing the hard things that come with life – even more so than most of us. And in that place, Jesus came to bring shalom: peace. He brought with him the completeness and wholeness he wants us to experience as we follow him. So, during this Christmas season, remember the Prince of Peace. Remember him as you continue to trust him. His first advent is proof that the Prince of Peace also wants us to have peace.

Alternate readings: John 14.27, John 16.33, 2 Thessalonians 3.16, Colossians 3.15

Suggested hymns: O Come, O Come Emmanuel