Occasion: Nativity of the Lord (Christmas Day)

Theme

English: Peace

Eʋe: Ŋutifafa

Twi: Asomdwoe

Scripture Readings

Isaiah 9:2–7, Titus 2:11–14, Luke 2:1–20

INTRODUCTION

Christmas is far more than a festive season marked by joy, gifts, and family gatherings. At its very heart, Christmas proclaims a divine message to a troubled world: God has given us peace. This is not the fragile peace offered by political power, economic stability, or military strength, but a lasting and redemptive peace that comes through the birth of Jesus Christ.

In a world darkened by fear, conflict, injustice, and anxiety, the Nativity of the Lord announces Peace — (Ŋutifafa — Asomdwoe.) Humanity longs deeply for peace, yet it often remains elusive. From a biblical perspective, peace is not merely the absence of trouble; it is the presence of God. Scripture presents peace as a divine gift that flows from the right relationship with God and manifests in the believer’s inner life, relationships, and community.

1. THE MEANING OF PEACE IN THE BIBLE

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word shalom conveys a rich and comprehensive understanding of peace. It goes far beyond quietness or the absence of war. Shalom denotes wholeness, well-being, harmony with God, others, and creation, as well as prosperity and security. When the priestly blessing declares, “The LORD bless you and keep you… and give you peace” (Numbers 6:24–26), it affirms that peace is God’s gracious gift to His covenant people, flowing from obedience and right relationship with Him.

In the New Testament, the Greek word eirēnē deepens this understanding by emphasising inner calm, reconciliation, and restored relationships. The apostolic greeting, “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 1:7), reveals that peace is rooted in God’s saving grace through Christ. Biblical peace is, therefore, both spiritual and practical, touching the heart of the believer and extending into society.

2. GOD AS THE SOURCE OF PEACE

The Bible is clear that peace does not originate from favourable circumstances but from God Himself. Gideon’s declaration, “The LORD is peace” (Judges 6:24), reveals that peace is part of God’s very nature. Paul echoes this truth when he prays, “Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way” (2 Thessalonians 3:16).

Gideon’s experience illustrates this vividly. Though surrounded by fear and uncertainty, he found peace when God assured him of His presence and purpose (Judges 6). True peace begins when God speaks reassurance into human fear.

3. JESUS CHRIST – THE PRINCE OF PEACE

Jesus Christ stands at the centre and fulfilment of God’s plan for peace. Isaiah foretold His coming with these words: “For to us a child is born… and He will be called Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). Jesus Himself later affirmed, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you” (John 14:27).

His peace is fundamentally different from what the world offers. When He calmed the raging storm on the Sea of Galilee (Mark 4:35–41), He demonstrated that His peace has authority over both external chaos and inner turmoil.

4. PEACE THROUGH RECONCILIATION WITH GOD

Biblical peace begins with reconciliation between humanity and God. Paul declares, “Since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). Through His redemptive work, Christ restores what sin destroyed, for “He Himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14).

This truth is powerfully illustrated in the encounter between Jesus and the sinful woman in Luke 7:36–50. After forgiving her sins, Jesus said to her, “Go in peace” (v. 50). Forgiveness, therefore, becomes the doorway to lasting peace.

5. PEACE OF THE HEART (INNER PEACE)

Believers are not exempt from trials, yet Scripture assures them of inner peace even in difficult circumstances. Paul exhorts, “Do not be anxious about anything… and the peace of God… will guard your hearts and minds” (Philippians 4:6–7). This peace acts as a spiritual guard over the believer’s inner life.

Paul and Silas exemplified this truth when they sang hymns in prison despite their chains (Acts 16:22–25). Though physically confined, they experienced spiritual freedom and peace.

6. PEACE WITH OTHERS (SOCIAL PEACE)

God’s peace also governs human relationships. We as believers are called to pursue peaceful living, as Paul instructs, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18). Jesus further affirms this calling by saying, “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9).

Abraham’s decision to avoid conflict with Lot by allowing him first choice of land (Genesis 13:8–9) demonstrates that peacemaking often requires humility and selflessness.

7. PEACE AS A FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

Peace is evidence of spiritual maturity and the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer’s life. Paul lists peace among the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22. A Spirit-filled believer promotes harmony rather than division, healing rather than hostility. Where the Spirit reigns, peace naturally follows.

8. PEACE IN THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

Peace is essential for unity and growth in the Church. Paul urges believers to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3), reminding them that “God is not a God of disorder but of peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33).

The early church experienced this reality when it walked in reverence and unity, enjoying peace and numerical growth (Acts 9:31).

9. PEACE PROMISED IN THE MIDST OF DARKNESS

(Isaiah 9:2–7)

Isaiah speaks to a people walking in darkness—oppressed, fearful, and uncertain about the future. Yet into this darkness comes a divine promise: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light” (Isaiah 9:2).

This peace is not abstract; it is personified in a Child who is called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. His peace is divinely initiated, universally inclusive, and eternally secure: “Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end” (Isaiah 9:7). Christmas reminds us that peace is God’s initiative, not human achievement.

10. PEACE REVEALED AS SAVING GRACE

(Titus 2:11–14)

The Apostle Paul explains how this promised peace becomes reality: “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all” (Titus 2:11). Peace comes through grace, not merit. Christ’s birth introduces peace with God through forgiveness, peace within through transformation, and peace with others through holy living.

True peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of redeeming grace that shapes character and prepares believers for Christ’s glorious return.

11. PEACE ANNOUNCED TO ALL PEOPLE

(Luke 2:1–20)

The birth of Jesus takes place quietly, yet heaven can not remain silent. The angel declares, “Do not be afraid… I bring you good news of great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10), and the heavenly host proclaims, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace” (Luke 2:14).

Peace is announced to shepherds—the lowly and overlooked—revealing that God’s peace is for all people. Those who receive this peace, like the shepherds, are called to proclaim it.

CONCLUSION

At Christmas, God gives us more than a season; He gives us His Son. Jesus Christ is our Peace—peace promised by the prophets, revealed through grace, and announced to the world. Biblical peace is holistic: peace with God, peace within the heart, and peace with others.

APPLICATION

Receive His Peace — believe in Christ.

Live His Peace — allow grace to shape your life.

Share His Peace — be a messenger of reconciliation.

FINAL PROCLAMATION

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given.” (Isaiah 9:6)

May the Peace of Christ rule in our hearts this Christmas and always.

Amen.

By: Rev. Sylvanus Yao Kpodonu.