This is the third week of Advent. Each week four prior to Christmas, we pause in remembrance of the birth of our Savior. In some households a candle is lit in recognition of each of the Advent themes. This week, we light the candle of PEACE.
At the birth of John the Baptist, in Luke 1:76-80, it was told of the message he would share with the world.
“And you child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; For you will go before The Lord to prepare His ways; To give to His people the knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins. Because of the tender mercy of our God, with which the Sunrise from on high shall visit us, to shine upon those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
As I read this, I could not help but hear the song “You are My Sunshine” playing in my head. Never really thought of it as a Christmas carol, but maybe it should be? The birth of Jesus WAS God sending His SONshine to light our way to peace. Peace with man, peace with God. We celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ because His peace is all about finding light in the darkness, the reconciling our sin filled heart with our Holy God.
This time of year, I find myself mindful that God’s peace does not mean the world is without troubles. It does not promise us a lack of darkness. God’s peace is the light to navigate the darkness and redemption from the eternal consequences of a dark/sin filled life.
Next time you get a chance to sing some Christmas songs, be sure to include a boisterous rendition of “You are My Sunshine”!
Tuesday With Teri 