Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Romans 5:1-2
Paul’s message of peace through Jesus Christ takes on special meaning during the Christmas season. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we remember that He came to bring peace—not just an absence of conflict or a feeling of calm; but peace that reconciles us to God.
When the angels announced Jesus’ birth to the shepherds, they declared, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2:14). This is more than a sentiment of holiday cheer. God ripped open the heavens so the angels could proclaim that salvation had come.
This flesh-wrapped Deity bears the brokenness suffocating you and me. He pieces us back together with His perfection. He doesn’t always change our circumstances, but He always changes us. Christ has come, and He invites us to follow Him from the manger all the way to the cross—where a weary world can finally lay its burden down.
It’s through faith in Jesus that we are justified, meaning we are seen as righteous by God. This justification brings us into a state of peace with God.
Before Christ’s arrival, sin separated humanity from God. But on that first Christmas, God’s answer to our problem was a tiny baby born in Bethlehem. Christmas proves that God knows our greatest need. Christmas is God making a way out from under the heap of wrath poured onto all sinners. Christmas is our way through the hardships.
Through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, Jesus would tear down the barrier between us and God. The manger points forward to the cross, where Jesus took upon Himself the punishment for our sins and, in exchange, offered us His righteousness. Now, those who have put their faith in Him are justified—declared righteous in God’s sight. This is the true peace of Christmas: peace with God.
Celebrate the peace with God that Jesus brings. The baby wrapped in swaddling clothes is more than a symbol of hope—He was and is our peace.1
Reflection
How does Jesus’ sacrifice bring you peace with God? How does this peace affect your daily life, your interactions with others, and your perspective on challenges? This peace is a gift that transforms you, grounding you in the hope of God and empowering you to live out your faith with confidence and joy.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of peace through the Lord Jesus Christ. I am grateful for the justification that comes by faith and for the grace in which I now stand. Help me to fully grasp the depth of Your love as I reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice. Help me grow in my understanding and appreciation of the peace I have with You that came at a great cost. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
- A version of this devotional first appeared on StaceyWeeks.com December 2021.
Grab your copy at https://www.staceyweeks.com/books/season-of-wonder/