Today, we have become very creative in the way we reveal the gender when the birth of a child is anticipated.  Although the ways have enhanced and may have seemed to become even more than ever before, the gender reveal is not a new concept. For the Heavens & earth showed up for the birth of Christ, to the lost shepherds. Put yourself in the shoes of a shepherd. All they do is herd sheep. The relationship that a shepherd has with his flock is crucial, and a shepherd is even alert as he watches his flock by night.

In scripture (Luke 2: 8-10) the angel appears to bare the announcement of a birth to the shepherds that will change the nation. As the angel appears the glory of the Lord shone around them and they were afraid. As in other instances, an encounter with an angel produces fear. The angels knowing this and knowing the importance of compassion to those whom they speak, recognized the fear saying, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.” (Luke 2:10).

Now the angels seeing examples of good relationships, like those between the shepherds and their sheep, and the relationship between God and man, had learned the skill and importance of a good relationship. Over time the angels learned that God was holy and nothing could contaminate His presence. Over time the angels came to see a peace in the relationship between God & man.  When you hear the word peace you may think of quiet and tranquil. However, peace means to set at one again. Broken fragments in different directions that have been brought back to one again. Peace symbolizes that the relationship between God and man has been restored.

Have Peace FROM God

The scripture of Isaiah 57:19 shows that God is the initiator of peace.

Luke 2:14 – “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

 

Glory to God in the highest focuses on God. God wants the relationship between man and God. God wants to be at one with us again. He wants the real you.

“He knows all about us and still wants us.” – Pastor Billy Johnson.

Have Peace WITH God

Not only do we need peace from God, but we have peace with God. In scripture Romans 5:1 – “Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Having been justified, meaning having been made right, and now in right standing with God.

“There is no condemnation for those who have been made right through Christ Jesus.” – Pastor Billy Johnson.

In Colossians 1:20, the scripture further emphasizes that:

“He did not come to give material things, He came to give peace.” – Pastor Billy Johnson.

 

Have Peace OF God

Philippians 4:6-7 – “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Although we have worry and situations that warrant that, be anxious for nothing. Even if you are tempted to worry, pray about those things. Have a conversation with God and talk to Him about those very things. Turn your worry into prayer because the peace of God surpasses all understanding.

“Worry is really putting a fear deposit on the future.” – Pastor Billy Johnson.

Our situations may not change but somehow on the outside we’re alright. We think of peace as being passive, but in the scripture, peace is militant – guarding your heart & mind. Do not spend needless energy to worry, when God has given us peace – the good news – to combat that worry. Live at a place of peace. Let it be the standard, and when you feel anxious and fragmented, step back into that place of peace.

“In the midst of difficulty, you and I can access peace.” – Pastor Billy Johnson

In closing, God wants to grant this peace to you, but is there room?

Luke 2:7 – “And she brough forth her first-born Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”

 

Is your Christmas so tight that Jesus can’t get in there? Is your list of things to do so time-packed that Jesus can not get in there?  However crowded your life, we must move some things over.  We have become the Lord of our own lives, but I ask that you come and move things over that are in your way, prohibiting God, so that we may once again turn our hearts to peace.