“Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among people with whom he is pleased!”
Into the Text
The angels’ joyful proclamation of “peace on earth” is great news for us. The Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, has finally come to bring God’s peace to our lost world.
Who is this peace for? According to the angels, it is only for those with whom God is pleased. Even though God’s offer of peace goes out to everyone, most ignore it, choosing instead to continue in their rebellion. Some may not even be aware that they are God’s enemies. But by turning away from His Word and living life the way they want, they reject Him. There is no peace apart from God.
On the other hand, there are those who have been drawn to Jesus, who have accepted God’s offer of peace through His Son by admitting their sin, turning from it, and receiving His forgiveness. With such people, God is pleased. To them, He gives His peace.
There are days I feel very restless and wonder how a holy God could possibly be pleased with someone like me. I can be very negative, fail often, talk too much, lose my temper, and certainly feel no peace or joyful tranquility in my heart. This is when I need to remember that the only reason God is pleased with me is because of His Son, Jesus. When God looks at me, He looks at the perfect life of Jesus. I am sinful, yet I am God’s beloved daughter. I don’t do enough, yet He is satisfied with me. I am “in Christ,” hidden in His righteousness. How did I get there? By faith.
If I want to experience true peace, I need faith. As Paul says in Romans 15:13, God will fill us with peace as we believe in Him. I need faith that regards all my own works as worthless and sinful but Jesus’ work for me as more than enough. I need a faith that tells God every fear and anxiety, knowing that He will take care of me because He is for me. It’s only when I believe His promises and become confident of His love towards me that my restless soul finds true peace.
Prayer
Jesus, you see my restless heart. Give me faith to trust in you and fill me with your peace. Amen.