-December 20, 2021-
Good morning, happy Tuesday,
“To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet in the way of peace.”
(Luke 1:79).
Zacharias, the father of John the Baptist prophesied of Jesus the coming Messiah. There are three significant truths that he refers to: peace, light and life. Our Savior came as the Prince of Peace to bring them all to us. These three blessings are so needed in our world today.
• Peace – Jesus came into a world of conflict, turmoil, and strife. By Jesus’ death He gave us peace with God. Paul wrote in Romans 5:1, “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 1:13 tells us, “But now in Christ Jesus you who were once far off have been brought near by the Christ. For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation.” The Prince of Peace has given us peace. There is now one body composed of Jews and Gentiles.
• Light – Jesus came as the Light of the world. He overcame the darkness by the light of His presence. He brought light to all who are in the darkness and the shadow of death. Jesus said in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” We as His followers bear the light of the gospel of Christ. There are so many lost souls today groping in the darkness with no hope. They need Jesus!
• Life – Jesus also brought us life abundant and eternal. He said in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” He wasn’t be arrogant in saying that He is the only way, He spoke God’s truth. We have life in and through His death, burial, and resurrection. Because He lives, we live with Him.
This wonderful Christmas hymn, Hark! The Herald Angel Sing, was written by the great preacher and hymn writer Charles Wesley. The music was written by the great composer Felix Mendelssohn. The third verse of this glorious hymn says, “Hail the heaven born Prince of Peace! Hail the sun of righteousness! Light and life to all He brings, risen with healing in His wings. Mild He lays His glory by, born that man no more may die; Born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth. Hark! the herald angel sing, ‘Glory to the newborn King.’”
The words of this hymn are so deep and powerful. Our Lord came with healing in His wings, and laid aside His glory to be a Servant. He reconciled sinners like you and me to God through His death and resurrection. He our King, the newborn King, who reigns in heaven above and on the throne of our hearts. When Jesus reigns, peace, light, and life are our’s in abundance.
Have a blessed day living for Jesus in this world. Have a Merry Christmas! Stay safe and healthy.
In His grace,
Dean
Dean Allen's Daily Devotional 