High up in the Andes in South America, in a lonely spot, stands a monument with the inscription, "Christus Pacificator." This monument stands to commemorate the reconciliation of two nations which had been at war with each other. These two republics had been fighting and trying to destroy one another.
When by some means strife had come to an end and peace had been brought about, the combatants had shaken hands and friendship had been restored. So thankful are they, that they have mutually raised this monument. Giving the inscription, "Christus Pacificator"—Christ the Lord Jesus—the credit of it, they announce Him as the Peacemaker.
On a hill outside Jerusalem a monument once was raised which, while it told of man's continued bitter hatred and enmity, told out God's great heart of love and His yearning for man's peace and salvation. That monument was the cross on which "Christ the Peacemaker" died for man's sins. He "made peace through the blood of His cross," Col. 1:2020And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. (Colossians 1:20), and now any man, "whosoever will," if he but lay down his arms of rebellion, can enter into "peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Rom. 5:11Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: (Romans 5:1). Peace has been made. Peace has been proclaimed by the gospel to sinful men; and now peace may be enjoyed as a present thing, by any or all who accept this "Christus Pacificator" as their Savior.
Sin is madness, further strife consummate folly. Sinner, lay down your arms, confess your sin, accept the pardon God now holds out to you. There can be no peace until you give in and submit to God's terms.
After one of Lord Nelson's battles, the captain of one of the ships he had defeated went on board the Admiral's ship. After stepping on board, the vanquished man went up to Lord Nelson and held out his hand to shake hands. "Your sword first, please," said Nelson, and not till that was given up could the hand be held out in restored friendship.
Unsaved reader, confess your need of a Savior. God stands ready to receive and bless you on the ground of the death of "Christus Pacificator."