Embracing Wonder: A 5-Week Advent Devotional From Matthew WestSýnishorn

Tuesday, December 24: Jesus Offers More than a Moment of Peace

Whenever I hear the phrase “a moment’s peace,” I think about how the constant turmoil and noise in our world can fool us into believing we’re lucky to find a brief feeling of peace in the middle of a chaotic Christmas season. As we celebrate Christmas Eve, the last day of Advent, it’s easy to get caught up in the frenzy of preparations and festivities. You see, we are trained by the world to think we have to go out and make peace, find it somewhere, or take something to get it. The world tells us that peace, like everything else, is transactional. We must earn it, buy it, corner it, find it, or capture it with our own efforts.

But peace isn’t an app on our phone. We can’t wait in line for it at the mall. It can’t be prescribed by a doctor. And honestly, we don’t even need to sit in a pew to find it. The reality is all these things are only distractions. When we give up looking and striving and manipulating, and then simply turn our attention toward Him, well, peace finds us.

The prophet Isaiah gives several important names to Jesus in his promise of the coming Messiah: “He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). Each of His names is a reminder that there is only one who can provide for every single need we have. Are you confused and facing a big decision? His name is Wonderful Counselor. Are you feeling weary? His name is Mighty God. Have you been betrayed and wondered if all love is temporary? His name is Everlasting Father. Is your heart troubled with hurry, worry, and anxiety this Christmas? The Bible is clear that peace is only found in Him. Not in a location or a special circumstance—only in the person of Jesus. He is the Prince of Peace today, tomorrow, and forever.

Despite the stress, anxiety, and worry our world seems to ramp up around the Christmas holidays, the coming of Jesus on that first Christmas was a story aiming us toward the source of all peace––one that passes all understanding. That’s what the old Christmas song means by “heavenly peace”; the kind the world can’t bring. That heavenly peace is eternal. Won’t you come home to the peace that Jesus offers this Christmas season?

Respond: As you celebrate Christmas Eve, take a moment to reflect on where you need Jesus’ peace in your life. Write down one area where you are seeking peace and invite Jesus into that space.

Prayer: Jesus, please bring me your peace. As the season swirls around me, lead me to be still and know that you are God.