December 6, peace to those with whom he is pleased.

And this will be a sign for you. You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling claws and lying in a

manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and

saying, Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased.

Luke 2 12 to 14. Peace for whom? There is a somber note sounded in the angel's praise.

Peace among those on whom his favor rests. Peace among those with whom he is pleased.

But without faith, it is impossible to please God, Hebrews 116.

So Christmas does not bring peace to all. This is the judgment, Jesus said.

The light has come into the world and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their

works were evil, John 3.19. Or as aged Simeon said when he saw the child Jesus,

behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel.

And for a sign that is opposed so that the thoughts from many hearts will be revealed.

Luke 2 34 35. Oh how many there are who look out on a bleak and chilly Christmas

day and see no more than that, a sign to be opposed. He came to his own and his own people did not

receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become

children of God, John 1 11 and 12. It was only to his disciples that Jesus said, Peace I live with

you, my peace I give to you, not as the world gives do I give to you, let not your hearts be troubled,

neither let them be afraid, John 1427. The people who enjoy the peace of God that passes all

understanding are those who in everything by prayer and supplication let their requests be made

known to God, Philippians 4 6. The key that unlocks the treasure chest of God's peace

is faith in the promises of God. So Paul prays, may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace

in believing Romans 15 13. And when we do trust the promises of God and have joy and peace and

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