All You Want for ChristmasSample

Peace On Earth / The Little Drummer Boy

“He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.” - Philemon 1:16

Think

In September of 1977, a classic Christmas song, “The Little Drummer Boy,” sung by Bing Crosby, was harmonized with a new song, “Peace On Earth,” sung by David Bowie. What later became a hit recording for both artists was at the time believed to simply be another Christmas season melody. And in the unlikely mash-up, a question was both asked and answered. The young and upcoming glam rockstar asked, “Peace on earth, can it be?” The seasoned crooner responded with, “Come they told me, A newborn King to see, our finest gift to bring, to lay before the king, to honor Him when we come.”

Still, 45 years later, a question that seemed to both be asked and answered is still ringing in the air with the seasonal bells. In the annual traditions of our society, we celebrate the idea of peace among all mankind. And for many of us, it is an earnest question and request. A seemingly impossible sentiment brought to the forefront through lights, gifts, special music, and family meals can be solved with a challenge Paul has given to all those who read the letter he penned to his friend Philemon. He challenges the young believer to view those around him, specifically one that has caused him heartache, not as an enemy, but as a beloved brother.

Apply

Peace on earth will only come when Jesus returns one day to restore order to our world. But until that day comes, we are called to have a reformation moment in our hearts toward those we live next to and those with whom our paths cross. And the only way to reform our hearts is to have Jesus change our hearts. Only then can we view those around us as Christ does.

Do you see it? We cannot have peace or love those in this world if we do not come to the King and give Him our finest gift, to lay down our selfish ambitions and give our lives to serve Christ and others like He first served us. We cannot love the way we are called to love unless we have a reformation of the heart. Do you see those around you as Christ sees them? When we see others through the heart of Jesus, only then can we find true peace on this earth.

Pray

Dear God, help me today to see and love others as you love them. Please mold and shape my heart to be more like Jesus. Please lead me to opportunities to show others the love Jesus has for them. Thank you for the gift of Jesus. Amen!

Author - Pastor Mike Bailey is the lead pastor at IMPACT Church in Parkesburg, PA, and serves the local community with his wife and three children.