In the Christmas story, the shepherds were told by the angels that the birth of the Christ child meant that there would be peace on Earth.

Mankind always is seeking peace. We are hoping for peace in the Middle East, Afghanistan and Iraq. We are hoping that the people of oppressed countries like China, Iran and North Korea will someday live in peace. We are wondering when peace will return to Syria and Egypt. We are hoping that neighbors will seek peace with one another. This peace is more of an external peace in which people are getting along with each other, and the Lord knows we need more of it.

The peace the angels proclaimed is more of an internal type of peace. Jesus spoke of this internal peace in John 14, where he said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Jesus said the peace he would bring into a person’s life would help them to address the worries and fears that every one of us deals with. We need this peace to address our worries and fears about finances, relationships and the future.

This Christmas season, decide to let the peace of God rule in your life. It all starts with inviting this Christ, born more than 2,000 years ago, into our lives.

He is waiting patiently for the invitation.