“Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” Luke 2:14
Sometimes, it’s hard to see what’s so very familiar. As I was considering writing about this passage, I realized something I’ve not considered. Why is peace God’s gift to men? Why not wisdom? Or grace? Or salvation?
Perhaps a place to start first is clearing up what the angels said. Among our English translations, there’s enough difference to make it confusing. Are the men of earth receiving both peace and goodwill? Or just peace? Peace is what God is giving, but is for those whom He is pleased. In other words, simply being a human is not enough to receive the gift of God’s peace. This gift comes from God to those in whom He loves and delights.
But why is peace singled out as this gift? Of all the things that God can give to the world, why peace? Because what we most need is peace. Not just peace between nations; or peace between feuding families. God’s gift of peace is peace with Him in overcoming our sin.
A Prayer: Father, You know us so well, and so you always give good and perfect gifts. Teach us the value and worth of Your peace! Cause us today to rest in Your peace to us!