Day 1 (11 Dec): Peace in a Troubled World
- Jordan Tan (AMKPC)
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
“When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.” (Matthew 2:3)
When the Magi from the East came seeking “the one who has been born King of the Jews,” Jesus was no longer a newborn lying in a manger. He was already a young child, living in a house with Mary and Joseph. That’s why Herod ordered the killing of all boys aged two and below to ensure no rival king would survive.
So by the time the Magi arrived, the city was not filled with carols and lights, but with fear and unrest. The news of a newborn King did not bring peace to everyone. Herod was troubled, and so was all Jerusalem with him.
Why? Because the arrival of Jesus—the true King—disrupted comfort and control. The news of peace actually disturbed those who held power.
Even today, the message of Jesus’ kingship can trouble our hearts before it comforts them. His peace demands surrender. It’s not about escaping trouble but about allowing Christ to reign over our fears, ambitions, and restlessness.
We live in a world full of hurry, fear, and noise, just like Jerusalem in Herod’s day. We chase after stability and success, but in doing so, our hearts become restless. Yet into this restless world, Jesus still comes quietly, humbly, bringing peace.
He whispers,
“Don’t rush. Slow down. I am here.” “Don’t look around anxiously. Fix your eyes on Me.” “Don’t bear your sorrow alone. I will walk with you.”
As we reflect on His coming, let us rest in this truth: peace is not the absence of chaos, it’s the presence of Christ.
Let us respond with this song — 《平安在圣诞》 (Peace in Christmas) — a reminder that true peace is found only in the Prince of Peace:
Rev Forest Koh
Glory Presbyterian Church English Service.
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