Day 5: The path of peace
“...Because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace” (Luke 1:78-79).
Jehovah, Father, You are a faithful guide, an unfailing defense. From the beginning of the history of Your people, You established Your guiding presence: “Because of Your great compassion You did not abandon them in the wilderness. By day the pillar of cloud did not fail to guide them on their path, nor the pillar of fire by night to shine on the way they were to take” (Nehemiah 9:19).
Later, to a wayward and confused nation who had lost their way, You promised that You would listen to their cry for help, and set them back on course: "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it” (Isaiah 30:19, 21).
The psalmist, David knew how easy it is to become lost and confused in the twists and turns and in the maze of criss crossing trails and pathways along our way. He prayed, "Show me the way I should go...May Your good Spirit lead me on level ground" (Psalm 143:8,10).
But O Father, You know that this is not just the heart-cry of David, but of all humanity, so You sent the One who is the Way (John 14:6) to light our dark path, and to guide our feet into the path of peace (Luke 1:79). And as He came He immediately opened the way, guiding a bewildered young virgin, her trustworthy espoused, and a group of terrfied working shepherds—with angel revelation; and leading learned men with the peculiar light of a shining star.
And later on a cross, our Lord chose the path of suffering, and with His very life brought many sons and daughters to glory (Hebrews 2:10)—all who would accept His gift of peace and reconcilation with God (Romans 5:1). And then He rose from the dead, victorious, triumphant, and declared to all who believe,"Because I live, you also will live" (John 14:19).
Lord, Your amazing sacrifice has placed us on the path of peace, in spite of the brambles and briars, thistles and thorns this side of our journey. So we trust You, Faithful Guide. You have not only shown us the way, but You have demonstrated that You are indeed the Way, and the Truth and the Life (John 14:6).
Thank You, our Lord, Immanuel, for coming to lead the way home to the Father. Thank You that because You came to us, lived with us, died for us, we can say like David, You make known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand (Psalm 16:11).
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