Advent offers up an invitation for us to reflect on God’s faithfulness and goodness, His covenant of peace, and His ultimate plan to restore all things through Jesus. Amid the lights, decorations, songs, and food, the deeper truth of Christmas reminds us that God is actively working to bring shalom to the world.
In Scripture, shalom is more than just the absence of conflict, it signifies wholeness, completeness, and harmony. It is the way God intended things to be—a world flourishing in relationship with Him, with one another, and with all of creation (Genesis 1:31, Psalm 85:8, Numbers 25:12). When humanity fell into sin, shalom was fractured.
In Isaiah 9:6, we read the prophecy about the coming Messiah:
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
This passage reminds us that Jesus came not only to save us from sin but to restore shalom—to reconcile us to God and to one another, and to begin the healing of all creation. Through Jesus, we see the fulfillment of God’s promise to heal what is broken and through that reconcile us to Himself. The incarnation of the Son was the beginning of the end for sin and death. His resurrection secured the hope of restoration of all creation—a day when God will dwell and be with His people (Revelation 21:3-4).
In Christmas Bells, a poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, he writes,
“God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The Wrong shall fail,
The Right prevail,
With peace on earth, good-will to men.”
This poem and Christmas remind me that even in a world marred by division and suffering, the Prince of Peace has come, and one day soon His kingdom will reign forever.
Matthew 5:9 calls us to action: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
At Impact 360, our call and mission is to inspire and equip the next generation of disciples to Know Jesus more deeply, Be transformed in their character, and to Live a life of spirit-empowered influence. Through discipling and coaching students, I hope and pray my own attitude is aligned with being a peacemaker, that I am being a constant joyful example of what it means to bring the hope of restoration to community. I am reminded that as I interact with my team members, students, guests, and followers of Impact 360, I have the chance to be a reflection of the peace God has promised to bring, the same peace that lives inside of me! I can rejoice because even though the work is not yet finished, the battle is already won.
In John 14:27, Jesus says:
“Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Christmas is a season of hope, peace, love, and joy because it points us to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise. Jesus, our Prince of Peace, has come—and through Him, shalom is being restored. Let the bells of Christmas remind us that God’s work is not yet finished, but His victory is certain.
In what areas of your life—family, work, community—do you feel God calling you to bring His peace? How will you engage with your community to bring them hope and peace during this season and the new year?
By Amanda Bridges
Impact 360 Institute
Organizational Leadership Resident