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The title “Prince of Peace” communicates the type of reign this child will bring. Both earlier in Isaiah (2:2-4) and after (11:1-9), there is a communication of the “latter days” – the time of God’s Messiah. He will judge the nations and bring an everlasting peace where weapons are no more and even nature itself is made peaceful.

While it is true that this Messiah will bring about earthly peace, it is also imperative that we recognize that this child will bring about peace with God. Of this child, Isaiah 11:2 says, “The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him…” By this child’s life as God’s Servant, He with bring us peace with God (Isaiah 53:5).

These prophecies are fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus was born in Bethlehem to the virgin Mary. He was fully God yet fully man. He lived a perfect, sinless life. He performed many miracles. But more than this, Jesus dealt with our biggest disruption to true peace – our sin which separates us from a perfect, holy God. Colossians 2:12-14 says: “…[God] made you alive with [Jesus] and forgave us all our trespasses…” and Romans 5:1-2 “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ…”. These verses testify to the saving work that this “child” accomplished on our behalf to bring us to an everlasting peace with God.

Prayer

Lord God, to know Jesus as King and Savior is to truly know peace. We thank You that this Christmas we have hope for peace. We have hope in God for wars to cease, for selfishness to die, and for a life full of true peace that only You can bring. We thank You that You forgive us of our sins through Jesus’ sacrifice of atonement on our behalf. We thank You for Your Holy Spirit who empowers every follower of Jesus to forgive others and be messengers of peace. This Christmas, help us to remember and celebrate our Savior King Jesus who brings true and lasting peace. Amen!

*To access the PDF format of the devotional, please click here.