“What child is this who laid to rest
On Mary’s lap, is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet
While the shepherds watch are keeping.”

The angels welcomed the Christ Child at His birth in Bethlehem with both praise and blessing. We heard a call for peace on earth for all who will commit to follow Jesus and experience God’s grace. Peace is never the result of man’s good work or intentions. Peace cannot be manufactured in a conference or with a peace treaty.

We find ourselves today in places of weakness, turmoil, and despair because of a threatening virus, political upheaval, racial tension, and economic challenges. In times like these we are tempted to seek peace through manufactured means–but remember the angels’ announcement, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men in whom he is well pleased” (Luke 2:14).

God introduced His plan for peace on earth by sending His Son, Jesus, The Prince of Peace. Only those who are dedicated to Him and willing to serve Him can be bearers of peace, for He is the only source of peace. In the incarnate Son, the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ, God the Father inaugurated his only plan for peace. The Son is God’s key to peace. Not only will He speak the words of peace, but He will reveal the plan for peace.

In order to experience the peace that Jesus Christ brings, we must give our cares and anxieties to Him.