12/17/23 - Advent: Peace - Luke 2:14 - Pastor Jason Fritz

Advent - Peace Luke 2:14   You may not speak Hebrew but you know the word shalom. The peace symbol is one of the most recognized in the world. Worldwide recognition is given every year to those who are considered great peacemakers. Meanwhile the 20th century has seen more bloodshed in war than all previous centuries combined. Currently there are two major ongoing conflicts. In reality; peace on earth is elusive.   Last Sunday we looked at the first part of the angel’s glorious birth announcement. Shepherds were the first to hear about the true source of joy arriving in the form of a baby. The second part of the angel’s announcement proclaims this virgin born baby is the ultimate peacemaker.   “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Luke 2:14   There is no mistaking this - we please God by accepting his Son, Jesus. He is the only one that can remove the barrier of sin between us and the One who created and sustains all life. Once you have made peace with God, you can then have the peace of God in your life.   As Jesus prepares to leave his disciples, he says this, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” John 14:27 The world cannot offer inner peace. This is a deep security in knowing you are loved by God every moment of your life – in sickness and in health, in sorrow and in joy, in bad times and good. It’s a comfort the world cannot know apart from God and found only in Jesus.