Peace on Earth

                The Christmas story begins with a family, a little family consisting of husband, wife, and child in a stable. Even though they were most likely tired from their long journey, I feel certain that Mary and Joseph recognized great blessings as they watched the newborn Child of God sleeping in the manger.

                Mary and Joseph were most likely shocked when shepherds suddenly appeared, proclaiming that they had seen angels who directed them to go to the stable to see the newborn Son of God.     

       

                “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

                “And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

                “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

                “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

                “And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

                “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

                “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:8-14).

                We know that peace has seldom been on earth because wars and rumors of war are much more frequent. Yet, that same Child grew to be the Savior of the world who said, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you” (John 14:27).

                We live in a world of turmoil and tribulation, but we can still feel peace. We can feel peace as we follow the Savior in whatever circumstances we find ourselves. Whether we live in peaceful environments or in tragic situations, all of us can feel peace in our hearts as we are obedient to God’s commandments and keep our covenants with Him. Peace comes to us individually as we follow the Savior and walk in His light. We have the peace of Christmas all year as we are true disciples of Jesus Christ following in His footsteps.