January 5

because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the Dawn will visit us from on high, to shine on those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace. — Luke 1:78-79 BSB

There is a way of peace, and that way is the Lord Jesus Christ. He is “our peace” and “the way,” making Him the way of peace. He made peace through the blood of His cross (Col. 1:20), removing the enmity between us and God. He came to preach peace to those who were far off, in darkness and the shadow of death, as well as to those who were near (Eph. 2:16, 17). When the light of God shines on our souls, it reveals the way of peace, and guides our feet into it. This light shows us the path marked with the blood of Christ, a path of salvation through His finished work, atoning blood, and suffering.

As this light shines, we see that the path is one of peace, pardon, and reconciliation—a path of access to God, filled with grace, glory, life, and happiness. Faith moves our feet along this path, guiding us to walk in the way of peace.

This peace is beyond all understanding, a peace the world cannot give or take away. It is a holy calm, a gracious subduing of all rebellion, brought about by the same power that once said to the stormy seas, “Peace, be still!” How great is this change! Instead of being at war with God, we are at peace. We see by faith that the whole way from earth to heaven, as revealed in the person and work of Christ, is peace from beginning to end. As long as we walk in this path, we walk in peace now and forever. O to know, feel, and experience more of this peace—the peace Jesus promised when He said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you!”

This peace comes through believing, through the atoning blood of Christ, and through walking in sweet communion with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We are not left without guidance on how to attain and maintain it: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).