Scripture: Ephesians 2:14
Christ is our peace. He made both Jews and Gentiles into one group. With his body, he broke down the barrier of hatred that divided us.
Thought for the Day: I love the text from the Advent hymn, Christians All, Your Lord Is Coming. The fourth verse includes these words:
…hope for peace is now at hand…
Bear the word that God has given;
share the birth that stirs your soul.
The gift of the Christ Child has always been understood as a gift of peace, but too often it is understood exclusively as a personal inner peace. There is no question in my mind that Christ is our personal source of peace, but throughout scripture (including the writings of Paul), we find an expectation for us to live in peace with one another. This is not peaceful living when convenient, but when it is really hard or even dangerous. The hymn speaks of how the hope for peace is now at hand. Some might read this as wishful thinking, but where scripture speaks of hope, it is a reality in the making; a reality demonstrated in the lives of those who have chosen to follow Jesus. One must be at peace with him/herself before peace on a larger scale is possible, but Christ has provided us that peace found in a manger. For those of us who claim this gift, the broader work of peace must begin.
Prayer: As the birth of Christ stirs within my soul, I pray for your peace, O Lord, to not only dwell within me but to be lived through me. You emptied yourself and became a fragile child that I might know the power of humility and vulnerability. Call me again to live your way of peace among my sisters, brothers, and even my enemies. Amen.
