Peace and Harmony

The Old Testament reading for the second Sunday in Advent contains a well-known passage from Isaiah, a vision of peace in the realm of God: β€œThe wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them” (Is. 11:6). The prophet paints a picture of opposites, predator and prey, living side by side in peace.

While we may understand peace as the absence of conflict, true peace runs deeper than that. Paul wishes this kind of peace in his blessing to the Christians in Rome: β€œMay the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom. 15:5-6).

Christmas Offering to support regional ministry

Harmony. In the realm of God, creation is in harmony. It’s more than a cease fire or an agreement not to talk politics around the dinner table. Peace in the realm of God is when all creation glorifies God with one voice. Like a well-tuned choir, many voices join together as one. The wolf does not become the lamb; the kid does not become the leopard. They remain distinct, but also like the choir, they are aware of the sound of the whole.

As I have moved around the Region, many have heard me say that the Christian Church in Kentucky consists of many distinct voices. When we are aware of and listen to one another, we lift up our ministry in one voice with glory to God. In harmony, we are many congregations and one church.

The Christmas Offering gives you an opportunity to lift your voice in harmony with others. Your gift to the Christmas Offering blesses the ministry of congregations and clergy across the Region, lending your distinct voice to the harmonious work of Kentucky Disciples. 

Dean Phelps, Interim Regional Minister

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