Prince of Peace
Twinkling on a tree, glowing from a menorah, shining through the windows of storefronts and in the eyes of loved ones – an undeniable light resonates throughout this holiday season. Warmth within despite the chill outdoors causes even the most Scrooge-like to soften.
Where does this innate joy come from? From whom have we learned this gentleness and this love of giving?
The very same man who was born of a virgin in a manger thousands of years ago: Jesus Christ. He was one who did not save all of His time for the scribes and Pharisees, but blessed the tax collectors and prostitutes with His best.
Son of God. He healed the woman with a disease in her blood, just by being there for her fingertips to graze His cloak. Emmanuel. He loved people that others turned away from. He still shows this love even today, through His people. Jesus is the real reason for the season that is upon us: Christmas. Presents and special food are nice, but they do not compare to the gift He gave us when He died on the cross. Christmas decorations can be stunning, but they do not come close to Jesus’ beautiful heart. Carols are joyous, but they cannot carry a tune as timeless as the prayers of His people. As you go through finals week and prepare to head home for break, think about what Christmas means to you. Why do you subscribe to particular traditions?
When you write Christmas cards or look for those perfect gifts, ask yourself why the people you are blessing mean so much to you. Remember the love you share with one another. Remember who showed you how to love like that. Ponder what He means to you. Lastly, take all of that joy and share it with as many people as possible. Do something for someone that cannot return the favor. Be an example of beautiful peace.