Christmas Peace is Easter Peace

The risen Christ of Easter was once the Christmas baby whose birth was announced with the angelic pronouncement ‘Peace on Earth!’

After the resurrection, Jesus greeted his disciples “Peace be with you!” Our exploration of resurrection has shown us that our faith is both spiritual and physical. Peace, therefore, is not just peace in our hearts but, as the angels said, ‘peace on earth.’

Some Christian traditions have taken on the language of ‘Peace Church.’ Many Free Church traditions like the Mennonites, the Quakers and various Adventists have prioritized peace and peacemaking in the living out of their faith.  These traditions have produced conscientious objectors, creative advocates for conflict resolution and courageous calls to lay down arms.  

Baptist Christians have at times lived under the ‘peace church’ umbrella. At important times in our history Baptists have made peace a priority by siding with marginalized people, standing for justice and calling for peace. 

During the season of Easter, may we explore how we can embody Jesus’ greeting of “peace be with you” by finding ways to seek peace and to be peacemakers.

Merry Christmas and Happy Easter!