Glory and Peace

Heaven knows how to respond to the coming of Christ. In LUKE 2:13-14 (ESV), a multitude of the heavenly host praises God, saying, "Glory to God in the highest." The birth of Jesus is not treated as a small private moment. Heaven erupts in worship because the saving purpose of God is unfolding. Glory comes first. That order matters. Christmas is not first about human sentiment. It is about the glory of God. His faithfulness, wisdom, mercy, holiness, power, and covenant love are being displayed in the sending of His Son. Then the angels speak of peace on earth among those with whom God is pleased. This peace is not the shallow peace of everything feeling calm. The world can be quiet on the outside and still be at war with God. Biblical peace begins with reconciliation. Sinners need peace with God, and that peace comes through Christ.

ROMANS 5:1 (ESV) says, "Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." That is deeper than a peaceful mood. It is a changed standing before God. This is why peace cannot be manufactured by control. We often think peace will come when every circumstance finally behaves, every person agrees, every bill is paid, every plan is secure, and every unknown is resolved. But the peace Christ brings begins at a deeper root. He deals with sin. He reconciles. He brings us near. This peace then begins to shape the heart, relationships, words, decisions, and endurance of believers. It does not mean life becomes free from conflict, but it means the soul is no longer separated from God. If you are longing for peace, do not settle for surface quiet while avoiding Christ. The angels' song lifts your eyes higher. Glory to God. Peace through Christ. That is the order heaven sings.