"For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility." Ephesians 2:14

Peace is desirable yet elusive. It's familiar and right to pray for peace in the world during this time of the year. After all, the Christian Advent – the coming of Christ – through the birth of Christ is all about the reconciliation of creation to God. The Creator became a creature so that his creatures could be reconciled to the Creator. It's a reversal of cosmic proportions.

Into a world of conflict, the Savior came to bring and be our peace and reconcile us to God. "For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility." Ephesians 2:14. And, to reconcile us to one another. "All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation." 2 Corinthians 5:18. The words and message of reconciliation and peace cover the New Testament. Jesus became man and died so that we could be reconciled to God. "And through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross." Colossians 1:20. And then He called us to be reconciled to one another as brothers and sisters in Christ and to live at peace to the greatest extent of our ability with all people. "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4:32.

Since Jesus cared so profoundly about reconciliation, we should as well. We should begin in our families where estrangement is so common. Then move next into our churches where peace and unity are often compromised with believers who are quick to be critical rather than unite. And finally into our neighborhoods, schools, and workplaces where the presence of Christ is so needed. Keep in mind God did not wait until we asked for reconciliation. He took the first step and toughest step in the reconciliation process. He came to us when we weren't looking and had lost sight of Him. And he wants us to do the same. "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men." Philippians 2:6-7.

So why wait? While your pride often keeps you from making a simple phone call? Why put off that important conversation? Why delay with a meaningless conversation about the weather, sports, the happenings of life when a more critical conversation is before you? Have that conversation that has the potential to close open windows and open closed doors? Offer peace and reconciliation to someone this year. Jesus as God became a creature so that we could be reconciled to Him. There was no pride — only forgiveness that took the initiative.

Given what God did for you let me ask you: Is there someone you are estranged from that you can attempt to be reconciled to? And are you willing to set pride aside and be like Jesus who took the first step?

"Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord." Hebrews 12:14

DO THIS: Be reconciled

PRAYER: God, forgive me for the grudges I have held and for the pain I have caused myself and others in my inability to forgive and extend grace. Give me the strength to initiated reconciliation with those who have hurt me and those I have injured.