Devotionals

Christmas Peace Devotional

Christmas 2020 (scroll down for a downloadable version)

The year 2020 brought many challenges. Unlike most years, these challenges were nearly universal, as COVID-19 raged across the world. In America, race relations and election division have ravaged relationships in families and communities. Many come to the end of 2020 exhausted, distrustful, and full of uncertainty. As we move into Christmas week, I am reminded of the promises realized in the birth and death of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ; the promises of salvation, of peace, of love. Join me in this short Christmas Peace Devotional.

His power and purpose.

Isaiah 9:6 says, “ For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” (KJV)

The Old Testament prophesied the birth of Jesus numerous times. The prophesies spoke to his nature, his purpose, and his love for us. He is our wonderful counselor, God with us, and our peace. And, in the end, his kingdom will rule over all.

His peace.

Ephesians 2:14 says, “For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us.” (KJV)

Jesus is our peace. His coming provides the means for our salvation, a way in which we ourselves can forgive and live with and love others. As we face the divisions caused by history and even the invisible coronavirus, this verse provides a reminder that Jesus provides the power to break down barriers and to heal.

His victory.

John 16:33 says, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (KJV)

The deep and abiding peace that flows from Christ stems from the assurance that despite all the problems and difficulties of this life, He has overcome the world. Our triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, triumphs. And, as followers of Christ we share in the glory of that triumph.

Questions for contemplation:

  1. Reflect on 2020: your struggles, your anxieties, and your fears. How might God have provided you peace despite your earthly circumstance?
  2. How does knowing the victory belongs to the Lord influence how you view the pandemic or the current social issues in our world?
  3. How might you praise the Lord as you look forward to 2021?

Devotional Prayer using ACTS

Dear Lord,

Adoration:          We praise You, wonderful counselor, might God, Father, and Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).

Confession:        We come to You with empty hands, tired hearts, and confused minds. Our finite vision limits our ability to see Your glory in all its perfection and wisdom. We call upon the Holy Spirit to fill us with faith in the promises of Your Word (1 Corinthians 2:12-14).

Thanksgiving:    We thank You that, in the midst of the storm, You remain vigilant and ever-present, never forsaking us (Deuteronomy 31:6).

Supplication:      We pray earnestly for all those who have lost loved ones to COVID-19. We pray for those working the front line of the battle against the virus, for those who are working behind the scenes to provide research and understanding, for those who are making decisions for so many. We pray for those whose livelihoods have been affected by the slowing of the economy. We pray for those who suffer as an outcome of the slowing of productivity. We pray for our leaders across the country and world. Provide them with wisdom. We pray for our country and the wounds that divide us. Bring the peace the builds bridges. Bring the love that heals wounds.

In Your precious name we pray,

Amen.

Contributed by Liz Hunt

Downloadable Christmas Peace Devotional

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