The Joy of Peace

The shepherds’ quiet night was interrupted by a “multitude of the heavenly host”—an overwhelming number, possibly beyond counting—a vast and formidable angel army. Though their mission was not one of battle, their declaration was powerful. The peace proclaimed by the angels on the night of Jesus’ birth was far more than the absence of conflict; it was an active peace secured by the power and authority of God Himself. This peace wasn’t fragile or conditional; it was guaranteed by the God who reigns over all.

Sin made us enemies of God, but Jesus was born to make reconciliation possible, offering peace “to people He favors.” As Romans 5:1 declares, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” His favor was demonstrated at the cross and is extended to those who accept Him, restoring our relationship with Him.

The power of heaven backs this peace! Just as a nation maintains peace through strength, God’s peace is secured by His might. “My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all. No one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.” (John 10:29). The shepherds, gazing upon the heavenly host, glimpsed the power that guarantees our peace with God through Jesus. This peace cannot be shaken, rooted in the strength of the Almighty.

God’s peace doesn’t just stay in the spiritual realm—it transforms our everyday lives. Jesus said in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Don’t let your heart be troubled or fearful.” This peace is not fleeting or dependent on circumstances; it is grounded in God’s presence and power.

The same power that guarantees our peace with God sustains us through life’s difficulties. The shepherds knew they were witnessing something far beyond their understanding. Similarly, when we face trials—whether loss, uncertainty, or conflict—we don’t worry about anything but pray about everything, knowing that “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philemon 4:7) God’s peace stands guard over our hearts like a great angel army. No situation is too overwhelming for Him. There is no storm He cannot calm.

Life’s struggles aren’t eliminated, but how we face them is transformed. David expresses this assurance in Psalm 23:4: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” This peace comes from knowing that the God who commands the armies of heaven is with us through every trial. No matter the chaos or pain around us, we can rest in the peace of Christ, trusting that God has the strength to carry us through.

The angels’ proclamation of “peace on earth” pointed to a day when Jesus would bring final and lasting peace. When as the hymn says, “He rules the world with truth and grace.” The peace we experience with God and in our circumstances today is only a foretaste of the ultimate peace that will come when Jesus returns. Isaiah 9:6 calls Jesus the “Prince of Peace,” and His second coming will fulfill that title. The wars, conflicts, and injustices of this world will cease. The peace Jesus will bring at His return will be eternal, established by the One who holds all power and authority.

The shepherds’ vision of the heavenly host was just a sample of the power that will be revealed when Christ returns to establish His kingdom. On that day, the whole earth will experience the peace the angels declared, and God’s glory will be fully revealed as He sets all things right.

Christmas is a time of celebration, a season filled with great joy. As Romans 15:13 reminds us, “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing.” Music stirs our hearts, reminding us of the joy Christ brings, but let’s not simply sing these familiar songs without reflecting on the profound truths first declared to the humble shepherds. Just as the heavenly host united their voices in praise, may our worship overflow with the joy and peace we receive from God, both now and in the future. Embrace this peace—let it transform your heart and shine through your life to those around you who need it. Let the joy of this season testify to the unshakable peace we have in Christ.

Questions for Thought

1. In what areas of your life do you need to experience God’s peace more deeply? How can you rely on His strength during those times of difficulty?
2. How does the peace proclaimed by the angels on the night of Jesus’ birth impact the way you approach your daily challenges and relationships?

Daily Challenge

Consider starting a new family tradition that gives you the opportunity to point your family to Christ. For example, maybe it’s baking Christmas cookies to share with neighbors so you have an opportunity to share Christ’s love as a family when you deliver them. Another idea is to make Christmas ornaments that symbolize the nativity and share their meanings as you place them on the tree. Even the simplest of traditions can deepen your family connections and give you the opportunity to make the joy of Christ the center of your family.