It is rare I agree with Pope Francis, but he mentioned a “famine of peace” in his Christmas address, and I have to admit, I agree that peace has become a fleeting thing.

Franklin Graham had an appropriate response:

It’s because the Prince of Peace, the Lord Jesus Christ, is being removed from society, from governments, and He is openly mocked by the entertainment industry. What do we expect when we turn our backs on God and His Son who came to earth to bring peace? Jesus Christ brings peace and reconciliation between man and God through His blood shed on the cross and resurrection from the dead. If we put our faith and trust in Him, we can know the peace of God in our lives that passes all understanding. The Bible says, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).

~ https://www.facebook.com/FranklinGraham, accessed 12/28/2022

So true!

God’s Word definitely hints that society will move away from the truths of Jesus Christ as the day of His return draws near. We are seeing it happen as 2022 draws to a close and 2023 is upon us. Could Jesus return for us in 2023? It is possible, as there are so many signs that find their fulfillment during the tribulation, which occurs only after we (Christians) are taken in the rapture. However, none of us know the day or the hour of the rapture, so we won’t surmise.

But one thing is certain: treacherous times lie before us, and peace will become more and more difficult to find. Thus, we are wise to be steadfast in trusting God in 2023 and beyond!

⁷ “For the Lord God will help Me;
Therefore I will not be disgraced;
Therefore I have set My face like a flint,
And I know that I will not be ashamed.

~Isaiah 50:7

May 2023 be a season of trusting the Prince of Peace in the most profound ways ever.