Prince of Peace

For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on his shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6 CSB

December just began and already my calendar is filling up with Christmas activities, parties, and baking. I haven’t even started buying gifts yet. The hustle and bustle of the holidays can quickly become overwhelming for me. Where can I get some peace?

In Bethlehem about 2000 years ago, the town was buzzing with activity as well. Descendants of David from all over Israel had come to register for a census mandated by Caesar Augustus. The roads were probably crowded with people and animals while merchants hawked their wares. Can you imagine the noise and confusion for the townspeople and travelers?

It was in this busyness we find Mary and Joseph searching for a place to spend the night. After days on the road, they must have been tired, dirty and hungry. Mary was close to giving birth. Was her back aching? Were her ankles swollen? Was she irritable? I’m pretty sure I would have been, especially after finding out all the inns had “No Vacancy” signs.

In a stable, the Prince of Peace was born amidst the surrounding flutter of activity. This Prince was born for us—for you and me—as Isaiah’s prophecy declares. For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on his shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6 CSB).

Jesus came to give us peace. Peace with God the Father, peace with other people, and peace of mind (Ephesians 2:14-18, Isaiah 26:3).

Is your peace fleeting this Christmas season? Call out to the Prince of Peace. He can still your storm as He did for the disciples when He spoke to the wind and the sea, Quiet! Be still (Mark 4:39 NIV)!

 Thank you, Prince of Peace!

 Terri