And he [Jesus] came and preached peace to you
who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. Eph. 2:17–18
Lord Jesus, what’s the essence of Christmas? It’s, as this passage celebrates, you coming near to us—in our physical proximity and spiritual calamity. You came to sabotage the illusion of our self-righteousness, bear the guilt of our sin, and shatter the power of our shame. You, alone, give us the peace we need and crave—starting with our Father.
You are the Peacemaker of all peacemakers; for you, yourself, are our peace. On the cross, you exhausted the judgment we deserve. We now live under this grand declaration, “No condemnation for your sin remains” (Rom. 8:1). And robed in your righteousness, we joyfully sing, “His banner over me is love!” (Song of Songs 2:4). Make this more real than ever to us, Lord. We’re such an under-believing people.
And thank you for going with us into a variety of peace-lacking relationships, Jesus. Our calling is to live at peace with all people—as far as it depends on us (Rom. 12:18). Give us special grace when some people make it clear, they’re not desiring peace or a close relationship with us. That’s painful, but it must not define or preoccupy us. Only your relationship with us deserves that kind of power.
Jesus, you don’t promise us storm-free, relationship-easy lives before your 2nd Advent. But you do promise we will never experience a Christ-absent day. Forgive us when we are the ones perpetuating bruised, distanced, chilly relationships. By the power of the Gospel, may we be the chief repenters and quickest forgivers in each of our relationships.
Blessed, Prince of Peace, one Day wolves and lambs, leopards and goats, calves and lions will dance with, not devour each other. Until then, help us love others—all others, as you so outrageously love us. So very Amen we pray, in your peerless and peace-full name.