Dear Friends,
A favorite Christmas card that I once received featured a dove suspended in midair against a rich, deep-blue night sky. Below the dove, the word “PEACE” was prominently inscribed, and inside the card the familiar Christmas wish “Peace on Earth.”
Peace on earth is all too often an elusive reality. Yet, peace is one of the great gifts imparted to us by God’s Incarnation manifest through the Savior born long ago in Bethlehem. Over and over again, Scripture reminds us to hold on to the peace of God, which can reign in the hearts of Christian believers even in the face of inevitable adversities. Hence, Jesus speaks these words to his disciples: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” (John 14:27 NRSV)
In the midst of the ups and downs of life, in the face of uncertainty, it is possible for our hearts to be at peace—remembering that our hope is in the Savior born long ago in Bethlehem and in the One and the same who now reigns and will reign forever.
May we continue to hope and to work for God’s peace to become the norm. In the interval, may you and I allow the light of Christ to shine through our acts of love, generosity, and compassion.
Blessings to you and to your loved ones, and may the Peace of Christ abundantly fill your hearts today and throughout this Christmas season.
Faithfully,
