Has not God been in the peace business since the creation of mankind? Has not God always attempted to reconcile man back to Himself? Has not God been patient to stretch out His hand as a gesture of peace? So why is it that peace is an integral part of Jesus’ birth announcement? Was peace really considered a novel idea at Jesus’ incarnation?
Jesus’ birth was heralded by a host of heavenly angels. Luke 2:13-14 declares: “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will towards men.’” If God had always attempted to offer peace, why was it necessary to have it proclaimed in this way? One thought: the gift of Jesus was special, the Apex of God’s peace offerings to humanity.
In a prophecy of Jesus’ birth, He was predicted to be the Prince of Peace. Jesus, through His death and resurrection, paved the way back to God. Jesus became what was required to create lasting peace between God and man.
So, the announcement of peace at Jesus’ birth was both needed and hope-filled. It was necessary. God had made a final and lasting path of peace. It was hope-filled. One day, internal and personal peace will spread throughout the world and create a kingdom of peace.
