by Desiree Bustamante

Only Jesus has the power to give us His true peace.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“For a child is born to us,
    a son is given to us.
The government will rest on his shoulders.
    And he will be called:
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
    Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Isaiah 9:6 New Living Translation

While trying to find peace, we often seek out peaceful places to retreat to when we feel anxious or scared. Beauty in nature can calm our hearts, at least for a moment.

Although much of the world strives for peace, there is no real peace in this world apart from Jesus, the Prince of Peace. The Hebrew word for peace, shalom, means more than just the absence of conflict. It encompasses flourishing, healing, and restoration from all brokenness.

As the Prince of Peace, Jesus is the one who brings reconciliation between everyone and God. He can bring peace and wholeness to many areas of life.

The common definition of peace, the appearance of tranquility in a person, can be the most difficult to achieve and maintain. We can do nothing on our own to acquire or sustain our spiritual peace with God. And, while living in harmony with other believers can be extremely difficult, living in peace in our own lives by our own strength is impossible.

Jesus never promised that true peace would be easy. He told us to expect difficulties and trials in this world. But He promised that when we call on Him, He will give us peace that amazes us and exceeds our ability to understand it. No matter what happens, we can ask for a peace that comes from the powerful love of God that is not dependent on our own strength or the situations around us.

Isaiah’s prophecy states that Christ will reign on his throne forever as the Prince of Peace. We look forward to the day when He will return to reign forever. He is our true and abiding peace.

Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado