The Christmas season is upon us. There are scenes everywhere that remind us that it is fast approaching. People are busying themselves with gatherings, going here and there, getting and giving gifts, and all sorts of holiday chores. It is a time that can be filled with active excitement and anxious anticipation that can distract oneself from fully considering and embracing the reason for the season. Christmas is a time that we should reflect on the gladness of God, joy to the world, and peace to all men. Of these reflections, “peace” is one that we may give little or the least thought. Yet it is at the core of the Christmas celebration. Christmas celebrates the “Prince of Peace.” Christmas is God’s gift to the world. For “unto us a Son is given.” He gave “His only begotten Son” to be born and calm the chaos of sin with the Peace that surpasses all understanding (Phil 4:7), the “Prince of Peace.” On the first Christmas, God broke through the excitement, anticipation, and even the frustration that may have distracted Mary and Joseph away from reason for the birth of the Child and God’s purpose and promise to the world. A visit from the shepherds to see and worship the Babe, brought about that Peace had come unto the world, the “Prince of Peace.” The peace of God began that first Christmas morning with Mary’s heart that she “kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart” (Lk 2:19). The excitement of the census, the anticipation of the Birth, the frustration of being turned away, all fail and faded for the “Prince of Peace” was at hand. She took the “Prince of Peace” in her arms and held the peace of God in her heart. Dear friend, the peace of God is available to all who receive the “Prince of Peace.” In all the excitement of this Christmas season, be reminded that the “Prince of Peace” has come that you may have peace with God and that the “peace of God” (Col 3:15) may dwell in you richly. My friend, are you at peace with God? Have you accepted God’s gift to you, the “Prince of Peace?” Celebrate each day of this Christmas season with the peace that surpasses all understanding by knowing the “Prince of Peace” and holding the peace of God in your heart. Father, thank You for Your love and the gift of Your Son, the “Prince of Peace. In the blessed Name of Jesus. Amen.