The word, peace is often part of sermons, songs, and conversations during the Christmas season. After all, it is one of the names of Jesus given to us in Isaiah 9:6.

Scripture reminds us that peace is not the absence of turmoil and difficulties but the certainty that God is in control, working behind even life’s tragedies and heartbreaks to bring glory to Himself and do what is best.

Joyful, joyful we adore you, God of glory, Lord of love;

This Christmas hymn is my brother-in-law’s favorite. In 1979 it was sung at his wedding the day he married my sister. Eighteen years later, the words echoed at her funeral after a nine-year battle with cancer.

When faced with the realization that my sister would not continue to be at his side, raising my niece and nephew into adulthood, I did not immediately walk in God’s peace. I vividly remember the day I stopped my car and cried out to God, asking why He was taking her away. “Her kids need her,” I exclaimed. Through the darkness, God whispered to my soul; “Joyce, I love them more than you do. My ways are perfect.” Peace trickled in through tears as I surrendered to His sovereign plan.

This same hymn was a part of the funeral of my brother-in-law’s father. It resounded joyfully at his second wedding and would later bring encouragement at his mother’s funeral. Over a decade later, the hymn was a part of his military retirement ceremony. His wife recently shared these words in a Christmas blog post. “In planning his last wishes, he wants this song sung at his funeral. In life and in death, this song grounds him."

Two years after my sister’s death, God led us into global ministry. Looking back over two decades of cross-cultural ministry, I see overwhelming evidence that the God of glory and Lord of love walked with me and whispered peace to my heart repeatedly. Treasure and truth ring out from the final verse in the Portuguese lyrics, which differ from the English translation.

Aleluia, aleluia, a Jesus, o redentor! (Alleluia to Jesus the redeemer.)

Aleluia eternamente em louvor a Ti, Senhor (Eternal Alleluia in praise to You Senhor.)

Ao consolador dai glória, pois conforto e vida traz

(To the comforter, give glory because of the comfort and life He brings.)

Aleluia ao Pai eterno, Deus da graça. Deus da PAZ!

(Aleluia to the Eternal Father, God of grace, God of peace.)