On Christmas Eve during world War 1 in 1914, on the battlefields of Flanders in western France, an unusual event occurred. German troops who were entrenched across from their British foes began to light candles and sing Christmas carols. The British troops joined their enemies in singing carols which led to a spontaneous gathering of German and British soldiers in the middle of the battlefield celebrating Christmas together. As carols were sung, gifts such as hats, buttons, and tobacco were exchanged and a Christmas truce was honored through New Year’s Day.

Peace is a wonderful thing. To experience personal peace during conflict or confusion is priceless. Christmas is a time to remember the value and source of real peace. It’s also a good time to consider the opportunity of having the most valuable peace one can have, spiritual peace. The Bible tells us that spiritual peace is priceless because it is:

Internal — Spiritual peace is an inner phenomenon. It is not caused or compromised by circumstances or others. It’s something that God gives to us internally and is ours to keep and experience.

In elementary school, my friend and I would save some of our lunch money to buy an ice cream cone on our way home from school. As we would approach a certain area, we would put the money in our socks so that the looming bullies wouldn’t take our money. When God gives us His spiritual peace He puts it in our hearts where it’s safe and at our disposal (Jn 14:27).

Enduring — Isaiah 6:6,7 records that God and the spiritual peace He gives lasts forever. Even when we feel overwhelmed and things seem impossible, God’s spiritual peace is strong and will continue.

During Hurricane Andrew in 1992, many in the Miami, Florida area had to evacuate as the category 4 storm approached. The staff of the South Florida zoo did all they could to protect the animals that were to be left behind. As the staff left, one rhinoceros was left standing out in the open, unprotected in the face of the upcoming storm. After the storm passed, a helicopter was dispatched to survey the storm’s damage to the zoo and its animals. As they flew over the rhinoceros exhibit, there out in the open standing in the exact place as before but now among the hurricanes’ debris was the rhinoceros. Are you in the middle of a severe personal storm? Like the rhinoceros, God’s peace is strong and enduring.

For Everyone — Luke 2:10 tells us the good news that God sent His Son on Christmas for all the people. We aren’t disqualified because of our mistakes or weaknesses. He wants all of us to experience His presence and peace as we receive Him and His direction for our lives. Real peace comes from the Prince of Peace.

Thank you for partnering with us at Lighthouse through your financial and prayer support as we help individuals and families find God’s priceless peace.

Merry Christmas,

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