In many paintings of Gabriel announcing to Mary that she will conceive and bear the Son of God, the Savior of humanity, the artist depicts the power of the Holy Spirit going to her ear.  This correlates with many early church teachings that Mary conceived by means of her ear. Before you say that’s crazy, ask yourself why?

St. Paul tells us that faith comes from hearing. Eve was deceived by listening to the serpent. God created all things by speaking. Surely it’s not too crazy to consider the incarnation, God takes on flesh, happened by the power of God’s word spoken to Mary.

So it is with you. God’s life-giving Word placed Christ in you as well in baptism and continues to do so through holy communion and preaching. Where Christ is, there is peace. You are forgiven. You will rise. God is literally with you wherever you are – in your sorrow and fear, He is present. In your shame, His forgiveness is present. So that no matter what, the peace of Christ rules your heart.

Tap into that, as St. Paul instructs. Let it rule. Let him speak peace to you each morning. St. Paul then tells the church in Colossians to sing hymns, share the word and let the Word of God (which is Jesus) dwell in you. So that’s exactly why we gather together each week. So the peace of God will rule your hearts against the fears and chaos of the world! 

Need peace? Open your ears and listen to Jesus speak through His Word and words.