Proclaiming Peace

Zechariah 7-9; Luke 13 

“…He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth.”

Zechariah 9:10

This promise comes from Psalm 72:8 and was first proclaimed by Solomon. The fulfillment, however, is found in Christ as the Messiah who brings salvation to the nations. The UN and other earlier efforts have tried to bring peace to the nations without the peace of Christ and have found they cannot reform or transform the selfish self-interest of the human heart. Even nations that once proclaimed peace, slide back into war mongering and sabre rattling. Jesus alone is the hope for all prisoners of sin. His love is able to drive out fear and transform our hearts so we, too, forgive and love our enemies. The peace of Christ must be proclaimed when we enter into homes (Luke 10:5), relationships, and nations. To proclaim Christ’s peace is to proclaim his rule and victory over sin. This Gospel will be proclaimed to the ends of the earth and then the king will return in all the fullness of his kingdom.

“Lord, I thank you for your peace and rule in me, for your glory.”