peace out

I was in my teen years during the 90's Hip Hop and Rap Revolution, where it seemed like everyone wanted to wear their hats backwards and talk like they were from the hood.  It was not uncommon to hear my friends say things like "Yo" and "word to your mother" and of course when it was time to leave, they would shout "peace out!"  And while it's funny to think about all those white Indiana kids pretending to be rappers, the sentiment isn't all bad.  

In ancient Jewish culture, the most common greeting was Shalom aleichem (meaning "peace be upon you") to which you would then respond Aleichem shalom (meaning "unto you peace").

During this season, especially, we hope for peace.  Peace from war.  Peace in our homes.  Peace in our marriages.  Maybe even peace among our politicians (hey, a man can dream...right?). 
 
In Luke 2 the angels said to the shepherds "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."

My prayer is that you would feel the peace of Christ this Christmas. May you seek it (as wise men always have) in He who is the Prince of Peace.

Peace out ya'll,


In Christ,
Pastor Scott McDermid