Advent: The Road to PeaceSample

# What truth stands the test of time? ⏳ [IMAGE CONTENT] The observance of the Advent season can be traced back over 1,600 years. Wow! It must’ve had a significant purpose for it to last this long in so many Christian denominations. Can you imagine the wars, famines, pandemics, and atrocities this tradition has seen? Some traditions last a few years or decades, but Advent has stood the test of time. Do you know why? I believe Advent has lasted so long because it’s based on the truth of the first coming of Christ in a manger and the promise of His return on a throne. The word “ advent ” in Greek is parousia , which means “presence and arrival.” Do you remember the words of the angels? “ Then the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. ’” (Luke 2:10, NKJV) The shepherds were poor, very poor. In Jewish society, they really had nothing going for them except for the attention of God. Why would God send angels to announce the birth of the Savior? The shepherds received VIP tickets to the greatest prophecy of all time. “‘ For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’ ” (Luke 2:11, NKJV) If God would prioritize these forgotten little shepherds, don’t you think He cares about you? I’m not sure what you are going through, but I know Advent reminds us all that He cares for you, your family, your friends, your business, and your nation. God knows your name. He knows your every thought. He’s your Father, not just your God. His love for you surpasses all understanding, and you are important to Him. Do you remember the prayer that Jesus, the Prince of Peace, prayed? Can you pray it with me? “‘ This, then, is how you should pray: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” ’” (Matthew 6:9-13, NIV) Your Heavenly Father has your back, and that’s the truth. Because you’re a miracle. And I’m your friend, Paul Marc Goulet There is an audio attachment for this devotional. You can [ download the audio ](https://plan-audio-cdn.youversionapi.com/uploads/supplemental-audio/a2cf1063-1203-4601-b198-087ad4d86eee.mp3) if you wish.