Friday, December 28, 2012

My Prince of Peace


1st Writes recently published an Advent Devotional for our church. Here is one of those devotions.
 
My Prince of Peace
by Dawn M. Hamsher

Isaiah 9:6 “For to us a child is born…and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”


When I read this scripture, I see the women at the well scene in the Walk Through Bethlehem play. Anne Hill, in her cranberry-colored gown, leans in to gossip. She whispers, “My husband says…” and then she tells the other women what she knows of the coming messiah. As the scene progresses, the audience learns that the women expect a messiah who will free the Jewish people from Roman Oppression. They, like many of us, do not fully understand Jesus’ name, “Prince of Peace”.

As I meditate on that name, I picture Jesus stepping down from his throne, giving up his power, and becoming mortal. I see him hanging on the cross, bearing the weight of all our sin, and then dying. My eyes well up with tears and I am humbled.

John 3:16 says "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Jesus was and is the peace offering. His death made a way for all people to be with God. And now, after his resurrection, Jesus lives and waits in heaven for us to join him. For his love and sacrifice, I will be eternally grateful to my “Prince of Peace”.


Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me fully understand the peace you have offered through your son, Jesus.

Here a a few more from our Advent Devotional booklet:
Jesus Comes in the Night by Allen Ewing 
Peace with God by Jeffrey Phillips
Supersized Portions by Dick Williams

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