The Second Week of Advent: Peace
Christmas is a season filled with joy, celebration, and, for many, an overwhelming sense of peace. The familiar refrain “Peace on earth, goodwill to men,” which originates from the angelic proclamation in Luke 2:14, has become synonymous with the Christmas season. But what does this phrase really mean? How does it encapsulate the message of Christmas, and why is it still so relevant today? As we delve deeper into this powerful expression, we discover that the peace proclaimed at Christ’s birth is more than a seasonal sentiment; it is a transformative gift that shapes how we live and interact with others.
The Peace of Advent: A Central Theme
The Advent season is a time of reflection on the profound peace that Christ brings. It is not merely the absence of conflict or the fleeting tranquility we often associate with peaceful holiday moments. Instead, the peace of Advent reaches far deeper. It is a holistic peace—one that restores broken relationships, reconciles humanity to God, and heals the divisions in our hearts and in the world.
The angels who appeared to the shepherds in Luke 2:14 proclaimed, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” This declaration came at a time when peace was desperately needed. The world was filled with political strife, social division, and personal suffering. Yet, the peace they announced was not a superficial calm; it was the arrival of the Prince of Peace, whose birth signified the fulfillment of God’s promise to restore shalom—the Hebrew word for peace that implies wholeness, completeness, and harmony.
What Is Biblical Peace?
To understand the true depth of the Christmas message, we must explore what biblical peace, or shalom, entails. In the Bible, peace is not merely the absence of war or conflict. It encompasses every aspect of life—our relationship with God, our relationships with others, and even our relationship with creation. It is the perfect harmony that existed in the Garden of Eden before sin disrupted the world.
When sin entered the world, peace was shattered. Relationships were broken, and humanity’s connection with God was marred by disobedience. Yet, God’s plan was always to restore this peace through the coming of Christ. Jesus, as the Prince of Peace, came to reconcile humanity to God, heal our relationships with others, and restore the brokenness within ourselves.
The Proclamation of Peace on Earth
The angelic announcement to the shepherds in Luke 2:8-14 is one of the most beloved passages of the Christmas story. The shepherds, who were humble, outcast figures in society, were the first to hear this proclamation. The angels did not declare peace to kings or religious leaders but to ordinary people—reminding us that the peace of Christ is available to all, regardless of status or position.
The peace that Jesus brings is not tied to worldly circumstances. It is not a political peace or an end to wars, although those things may flow from it. Rather, it is a peace that begins in the heart, as individuals are reconciled to God. As Jesus grows and begins His ministry, He teaches that this peace is different from what the world offers. In John 14:27, He says, “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 be afraid.” This peace, rooted in the assurance of God’s love and salvation, transcends external circumstances and remains steadfast even in times of trouble.
Peace and Goodwill: A Call to Action
The phrase “peace on earth, goodwill to men” does more than describe the peace that Jesus brings; it calls us to action. The peace of Christ is not something we are meant to keep to ourselves. It is a gift we are called to share with the world. The goodwill mentioned in the angels’ proclamation points to the restoration of relationships. It is a call to extend kindness, mercy, and forgiveness to others, reflecting the grace that God has shown to us.
In a world filled with division, strife, and unrest, the message of “peace on earth, goodwill to men” is as relevant as ever. We are living in a time where polarization and conflict seem to dominate our social and political landscapes. The peace of Christ offers an antidote to this division. It calls us to be peacemakers in our communities, families, and relationships, seeking reconciliation and harmony in every interaction.
How Can We Live Out the Peace of Christmas?
The challenge of Christmas is not just to receive the peace of Christ but to live it out. Here are a few practical ways to embody the peace and goodwill that Christmas calls us to:
- Reconcile with Others: One of the greatest ways we can embody the peace of Christ is by seeking reconciliation in our relationships. Whether it’s a family member, friend, or colleague, consider who you may need to forgive or be reconciled with during this season. Jesus’ peace heals broken relationships, and we are called to be agents of that healing.
- Extend Kindness and Generosity: Christmas is a time of giving, but the goodwill proclaimed by the angels extends beyond material gifts. Acts of kindness, words of encouragement, and gestures of compassion are all ways we can share Christ’s peace with others. In a world that can feel cold and uncaring, small acts of love can make a profound impact.
- Seek Inner Peace: Amidst the busyness of the holiday season, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with stress and anxiety. But the peace of Christ is available to us even in the midst of our busyness. Set aside time for prayer, reflection, and quiet. Allow God’s peace to calm your heart and mind, reminding you of the deeper meaning of this season.
- Be a Peacemaker in Your Community: The peace of Christ is not meant to stay within the walls of our homes or churches. We are called to be peacemakers in the broader world, advocating for justice, reconciliation, and healing in our communities. Whether through volunteer work, community engagement, or simply fostering peace in your neighborhood, there are countless ways to extend Christ’s peace to the world around you.
Conclusion: The Gift of Peace
The angels’ proclamation of “peace on earth, goodwill to men” is more than a beautiful Christmas sentiment—it is a profound truth that should shape how we live. The peace that Jesus brings is not just for a season, but for every day of our lives. It is a peace that reconciles us to God, restores our relationships with others, and heals the brokenness within ourselves.
As we celebrate Christmas this year, may we be reminded that the peace of Christ is available to all who seek it. And as we receive this gift, may we be empowered to share it with a world in desperate need of peace and goodwill. Let this be the season where the peace on earth proclaimed by the angels becomes a reality in our hearts, homes, and communities.
This article was written by CCS staff with generative assistance from AI.
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