We find a celestial chorus in Luke’s Gospel praising God with the following words:
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favours!”
Jesus: The Prince Of Peace
Jesus’ birth as the Prince of Peace was foretold by Isaiah (cf. Isa. 9:6). As a fulfilment of this prophecy, Jesus was born in Bethlehem “in the fullness of time” (Gal 4:4). Truly, Christ’s birth was a momentous event that redefined human history.
The angelic hymn expresses the real purpose of Christ’s incarnation: “to offer peace to those who find favour in God’s eyes”.
Peace And Goodwill To All Men
Interestingly, the universal announcement: “Peace and goodwill to all men” symbolizes Christ’s birth as a gift to all peoples, transcending societal, ethnic, and national boundaries. Ultimately, Christ’s incarnation promises and makes possible peace and goodwill with God and others. We should spread this peace “with” and “from” God to everyone.
In recent times, enmity and conflict have increased between families, societies, ethnicities, and nations. It might even get worse. Amidst a world torn by war and conflict, where suffering and strife seem ever-present, Christmas calls us to remember the birth of the Prince of Peace.
Unfortunately, we have become indifferent to our neighbours’ suffering in a world filled with violence and war.
Called To Be Peacemakers
Our mission is to be peacemakers and stewards of God’s creation, caring for every form of life, no matter what it is. As a people, we need to reaffirm God’s grace and favour, realizing that all humanity is embraced by his love.
As we celebrate Christmas, let’s embrace our roles as God’s children and strive for peace. This Christmas, let us remember these words of Christ:
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Mt. 5:9).
I pray that we may emulate God’s peace and love this season and live in harmony with all of God’s creation.
