Providence 365: Week 51, the 4th Week of Advent

Today is the fourth Sunday of Advent, and traditionally, the candle lit for today is the candle of peace. 
Isaiah 9:5-7:

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Christ has come and brought peace, sweet peace between sinful people and a righteous God. Only when we are at peace with God will we, or indeed can we, have true, lasting, peace among men. 


But, our peace didn't come peacefully.  
We love the story of the Christ Child, but He didn't stay a pudgy, cuddly, sweet little baby.  He grew into a man, fully man and fully God, who walked the earth, who ate our food, who felt all that we feel. 

Wonder of wonders!

Mystery of mysteries!

The peace He brought us, he didn't obtain as a baby.  It was through His work as a man, His suffering in our place on the Cross, that we can stand before God, clothed in the righteousness of Christ.  Our forgiveness came through the blood and sweat and pain and despair of a very real man, who suffered so greatly that I want to weep when I read descriptions of the crucifixion.  

But, praise God! the story doesn't end there!


No, the veil was ripped in two, the wall of division between men and God, and between men and men, was torn down with His bare, nail-pierced hands.  


And, then the stone was rolled away, for death could not hold Him, the Maker of the Universe.  Oh, does your soul not soar with that thought?

 The Babe in the manger was just the beginning of the story....

You can find the word art HERE.  And, this week, when you download, I'd so appreciate a comment, especially if you've been blessed by our journey this year.  Pam and I so appreciate each and every little note we receive.  This will be my last P365 posting, so thank you so much!  God bless you as you seek Him in all of the Providences of your life.