Growing up, I loved watching pageants, especially the Miss Universe Pageant. I definitely had no interest in being in any. I just loved the beautiful dresses and hearing the different accents as the women spoke. I would always pick my favorite contestant to win, and sometimes they would. Part of the pageant involved an interview. Inevitably the question would be asked, “What would you most like to see in our world?” Though the responses varied, the theme revolved around one word – peace. Peace, a desire of most people, yet we see so little peace in our world, in our neighborhoods, in our homes. The Jewish people also longed for peace, and the King, who would bring peace, was prophesied in Isaiah 9:6.

“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.”

The prophesied child was born to Mary in a little stable in Bethlehem. The angels announced His coming singing glory to God and peace on earth, for Jesus came as the “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” He was born that He might die. His victory over sin and death brought reconciliation between God and man. For those who accept the gift of salvation, peace with God is restored.

But was He the King? Even as the people identified Him as king on Palm Sunday in shouting “Hosanna!”, they did not recognize Him for the King He truly was. They were looking for a savior to wield power and overthrown oppression. They were looking for peace through a new kingdom established on the earth, but Jesus came to provide everlasting peace.

Do you have that peace? Is He your King? Eternal peace is offered through God’s gift of salvation. Peace on earth is found even in the most turbulent circumstances as you allow Jesus to guide you through life with His wisdom, strength, and power. He wants you to live a life of peace.

The King has come, and He offers you peace.