Isaiah painted a picture of something we all want to see. “Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness abide in the fruitful field. And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever” (32:16-17)
The advent of Jesus heralds the coming of an age of peace. He is “wonderful counselor, mighty God, everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
In a world of terrorism, doesn’t the advent of peace sound like good news?
In a time of division and political feuding, doesn’t the advent of peace refresh your heart?
In seasons of uncertainty and fear, doesn’t the advent of peace calm your soul?
The peace of Jesus is counter-intuitive. A disciple of Jesus enjoys peace most when the world is least peaceful. Perhaps why we call it “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, [which] will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7-9).
One of my favorite moments in the story of Jesus happened just after the resurrection. The disciples had locked themselves in a room because they were afraid. Their leader had been slaughtered. Their movement was over. Their own lives were at risk. Jesus appeared to them—the locked door bothered him no more than the sealed tomb did—and simply said, “Peace be with you” (John 20:19). The passage continues: “Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.”
The calmest day without Jesus brings no peace. A storm with Jesus has no power.