The first year of the new millennium has been anything but peaceful. The great epidemics of our age – Hatred, Violence, Hunger, Homelessness and Poverty – have made the promise of a ‘Better Tomorrow’ bleak. And though we know that the Lord is on His throne and is in control of human history, His seeming lack of intervention in the state of the world, makes it difficult for us as human beings, to understand the mystery of His purposes.

As Christmas draws near, we must recall that the Prince of Peace came to earth, wrapped in swaddling clothes. Peace of mind and soul was His message to the world. He brought ‘Shalom’ – freedom from anxiety and fear, well being, and His enduring love, to all who invited Him into their hearts. His message to the world remains unchanged. His peace ‘passeth all understanding,’ and provides a calm and secure shelter, in a Godless and angry world.

This peace is what Christ alone can give. It takes away all bitterness and anger from our hearts, and is reflected in our human relationships. We as His children must be “Peacemakers who sow in peace, and raise a harvest of righteousness.” (Jas. 3:18.) Did He not say “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Mt.5:9.)

The Lord expects us to spend ourselves beyond the call of duty, and build a society of justice and equity.

This Christmas, may we say with Walter Scott,

“Heap on more wood,

The wind is chill;

But let it whistle as it will,

We’ll keep our Christmas merry still!”