121 AdventSýnishorn

How Do We Live In Peace With Others?

For thirty years, the Berlin Wall stood separating families, friends and fellow countrymen from one another. Concrete and barbed wire divided one side of the city from the other. With this wall, peace was impossible. Regardless of the hostility present, they could never socially flourish with this wall dividing them. On November 9, 1989, the wall “fell down” and Berliners were allowed to pass through the formerly locked gates. Millions began to celebrate and chant “Open the gate!” Finally, relationships could be restored and peace could be had.

While the Berlin Wall was a literal wall dividing one from another, all too often we build dividing walls of hostility in our hearts that separate us from others. The hostility we build up may not be literal, but it is just as powerful to keep us from peace with one another.

But Jesus has changed everything. Through His death on the cross, He has removed guilt and sin, offering peace to all who trust their lives in His hands. For all who are now His, we are united into one family, and Jesus has removed every wall of hostility that would keep us from peace with others. When we remember the work Jesus has done to bring peace into our lives, it compels us to move forward in bringing peace to others!

Families With Young Children

Read Psalm 29:11. KIDS, The older you get, the more conflict you will see. Do you know what conflict is? Conflict is when people have a disagreement and find it hard to get along. In these cases, we are called to be peacemakers. How can you be a peacemaker? What about looking to Jesus, who is your helper? He can help you figure out a way to bring about peace. Being a peacemaker does not mean you stop standing up for what you believe in, it means you bring a more peaceful feeling to a situation that lacks peace. With God’s help you will know what to say in tough situations.  Jesus' peace will replace fear and worry, and because of the peace He gives us, we can be peacemakers to others.

Has there been a time when you have found yourself being a peacemaker? Has there been a time when someone has stepped in for you and provided the peacemaking?

Read Luke 2:13-14. KIDS, Jesus came to show us the way, He came to give us peace. His desire is for us to live in peace with others. Take time tonight to listen and sing some of your favorite Christmas songs with your family! As you pray, ask God to help you show peace to others. Thank Him for sending His Son, Jesus, to give us peace. Thank Him for giving us this Christmas season to celebrate Jesus!