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December 6, 1998, Sunday
Should a messenger have enough information to guide
those that receive the information about the topic?
If most people want to send away a messenger of bad
news, what should one do with a messenger of good
news? Do most people want to confirm the message by
a messenger?
Luke tells us that it was prophesied that John the
Baptist would be a messenger for the Messiah Jesus
that was to come. He would preach to prepare the
hearts for those who would receive and accept Jesus--
"Our God is merciful and tender. He will cause the
bright dawn of salvation to rise on us and to shine
from heaven on all those who live in the dark shadow
of death, to guide our steps into the path of peace"
(Luk 1:78). John was that guide and prophet to lead
many to Jesus to find peace and safety.
Isaiah tells us of the great excitement that we have
when a messenger hurries toward us with good news---
"How wonderful it is to see a messenger coming across
the mountains, bringing good news, the news of peace!
He announces victory and says to Zion, "Your God is
king!" (Isa 52:7). News of peace generally tells us
that a conflict or war has ended. For those that
freely accept God's plan of salvation, that peace
is good news to celebrate and rejoice.
Luke tells us also that God sent angels as those
rejoicing messengers who gave proof of the news--
"And this is what will prove it to you: you will
find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger;
Suddenly a great army of heaven's angels appeared
with the angel, singing praises to God; Glory to
God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to
those with whom He is pleased!" (Luk 2:12). The
goal to please God and give Him glory for all that
He does for us truly gives great peace.
Let us remember who is the God that is our peace. God's
name is Jehová Shalom. He is the God that puts His peace
all around His people. He is the God that is helping us
learn His ways. The Psalmist had the calm assurance of
knowing that his praises to God brought contentment and
peace: "I will praise you as long as I live, and in Your
Name I will lift up my hands" (Psa 63:4). Lift your hands
to Him and Praise Him today for the fact that He is the
God that guards us with His peace!
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