“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)
When my children were young, I sometimes despaired of peace. I’d set the supper table envisioning uplifting conversations about our day, but by the time I’d dished up the casserole, the battles began.
“His chair is too close to mine.”
“She got more French fries than me.”
“Tell him to stop breathing so loud.”
“I get the computer first after supper.”
Instead of the grace and love I hoped to instill in my family, my efforts to bring reconciliation and understanding usually resulted in more accusations, cries for justice, and pouting.
My frustrating attempts to mediate family squabbles showed me how difficult it is to bring peace. On my own, I couldn’t create peace between my children, or peace in my marriage, or even peace within my own thoughts. And I certainly couldn’t create reconciliation with God.
Every interaction in my life makes me realize how much I need Jesus, the Prince of Peace. I love this description of the promised Savior in Isaiah. “Mighty” and “Everlasting” reflect His power, and “Counselor” reminds me of His gentle wisdom. Only Jesus has the perfect combination as both God and man to be the Prince of Peace. He’s strong enough to solve the problems too big for me, and merciful enough to give His life to restore me.
Faith step: Is there a lack of peace in an area of your life? An inner conflict, strained relationship, or even a barrier in your walk with God? Invite Jesus to be your Prince of Peace, and bring both His power and His love to that situation.
