Advent of Peace.  Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you.”  Isaiah foretold of Jesus’ birth 700 years prior, “Unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given…His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” - Isaiah 9: 6

Jesus is the author and sustainer of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love.

The LORD who made the universe and everyone in it is a personal God, that is why He came in the flesh, God incarnate - Jesus!

Advent is a time to celebrate and a time to prepare.  As Christ followers we celebrate the first coming of Christ and we prepare for His coming again!  Yes, Jesus came and is coming again!  How do I know? - His written word declares it!

But in the meantime, I am trusting Him as “my” shepherd! (cf. Psalm 23)

The LORD is “my” shepherd therefore I’m learning to be content.  As “my” shepherd He “leads me to green pastures and beside still waters” so that my soul will be restored.  As “my” shepherd He leads me to a right way to live (righteousness), if I will only listen to His voice and follow Him - if He is truly “my” shepherd, I will!  As “my” shepherd, though I may “walk beside the valley of the shadow of death” I have nothing to fear because He is with me from the cradle to the grave and all in between.  Though I have enemies and an enemy of my soul, as “my” shepherd He has given me His Holy Spirit so that I might experience joy to overflowing and experience true peace, peace that surpasses all understanding.  As “my” shepherd I can recognize His goodness and mercy to me as I journey through this life with all its valleys and mountains.  And when this life ends as I know it, because He is “my” shepherd in this life, I have the promise of eternal life and a place in His eternal home - because He promises as “my” shepherd. 

Now, may “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.” - Numbers 6: 24-26

Pastor Rodney