13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Luke 2:13-14 ESV
If we grew up with the King James version of Christ's birth announcement, we remember the angels proclaiming "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." But several translations make a small, but significant change. That peace is reserved for those "with whom he is pleased." Click here for a sample.
This view of the proclamation makes it much more personal and requires action on our part. Christ's coming to earth did not guarantee an inner peace for all mankind. It was not a mist sprayed into the air that we all breathed in. It was not an additive to the world's water supply. In fact for many it did just the opposite. The Gospel story causes us to examine what we believe. It creates sleepless night for many unbelievers. Throughout history many have railed against that peace.
Jesus' birth did make peace possible. It created a pathway for reconcilation with God the Father from whom we are separated by our sin. But that peace is not a given. It comes at a price. We must sacrifice our will. We must accept His salvation. Self control becomes Christ control.
Peace was proclaimed, but only for those who accept.
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