Choose Peace ~ Sarah Davis

For unto us a child is born…and his name shall be called…The Prince of
Peace. Isaiah 9:6

At Christmas, our minds naturally drift to peaceful scenes. Our carols
sing of silent nights where all is calm, paired with images of snow
covered landscapes under a starry sky or a crackling fireplace beside
twinkling lights. We long for stillness. We crave calm.

But real life is rarely silent or calm. December fills quickly—gifts
to buy, cookies to bake, programs to attend (or direct!), gatherings to
plan, people to care for, expectations to manage. The season meant to
bring peace often presses us the hardest.

Jesus’ life was also anything but peaceful. It was marked by
opposition, pressure and expectations from crowds, betrayal, and
ultimately the cross. His title Prince of Peace doesn’t describe a
life free from chaos–it reveals the purpose for which He came: to
bring reconciliation between God and man, between ourselves and
others, and to give us true rest in Him.

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of
God. Matthew 5:9

Scripture doesn’t say peacekeepers. Peacekeeping avoids conflict.
Peacemaking enters into broken places to restore what’s been strained.
Peacemaking assumes something needs mending.

And God has called us to participate in that work.

…God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath
given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 2 Corinthians 5:18

I love the serene scenes of Christmas. But even more, I love the
possibility of imitating my Lord and Savior through the ministry of
reconciliation. If we have made peace with God through His Son Jesus
Christ, then we can be agents of peace to others. If His Spirit lives
in us, then His peace can flow through us. We look like Jesus--and are
recognized as His children–when we practice peacemaking.

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that
ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. Romans
15:13

But the fruit of the Spirit is…peace... Galatians 5:22

So each day, seek the One who is known for peace–and then make an
intentional effort to bring peace to others.

• Make space for His peace as we humble ourselves before Him.

• Speak peace with gentle answers, softened tones, or a simple “I’m sorry”.

• Choose reconciliation over resentment.

• Pray over and prepare for peace in your home and relationships.

This Christmas, may our homes and hearts be places where Christ’s
peace isn’t merely admired in a picture or carol—but practiced,
shared, and made real through the ministry of reconciliation.