Prince of Peace
“For a Child will be born to us, a Son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of armies will accomplish this.” Isaiah 9:6-7
Insight
Alright, I already know what you are thinking, “Davy, it is after Christmas, why are you writing on this verse?!” Well, stick with me and hopefully we can make this a year-long verse to keep in front of us!
We are all in need.
We need someone to disturb and interrupt the false peace we trust in. We need someone who can push against the false peace of believing we can be good without God. Someone who can push against the false peace that believes we can be whole without acknowledging how broken we are. We need someone to push against the false peace that believes people can rule and have dominion through violence and unjust politics.
The need mentioned above has been met with Jesus, our Prince of Peace.
Jesus invites us into true peace: a peace marked by loving God and loving our neighbors. Jesus does not rule as the rulers we see today. Jesus’ rule is marked with justice, righteousness, grace, love, liberty, joy, freedom, and mercy.
Jesus says “Come,” to the wounded and the weary.
Jesus says, “Welcome home,” to the bruised and broken.
Jesus says, “I will come down and rescue them,” to those living under the weight of oppression.
As Christ-followers, since we get to experience the Prince of Peace, we should want to be His messengers.
Following Jesus is about loving others. Following Jesus is about using our sources of influence and power to set people free. Following Jesus is about becoming good news in a world that seems hopeless. Following Jesus is about a new Earth, as well as a future Heaven.
Reflection
What false peace do you need to surrender in order to be with the Prince of Peace?
Who do you know that needs to meet the Prince of Peace?
Prayer
Father, make me an instrument of peace. Help me to see when I am leaning towards false peace, so that I can return to You, my Prince of Peace. As I continue to grow closer to You let me invite others to You and Your peace. Thank You for being for me and loving me unconditionally. I love You Father, and pray this all in Your awesome name, Amen.
Port City writer Davy Nance wrote today’s devotional.