HOW HUMAN history has been ravaged by war. Century after century, all across the globe. Whole countries have fought one another, small tribal groups or gangs fighting for their territory in their city.

Are wars 'justified'? We have lived through that debate again since the crisis in Iraq. And all too often, religion has been implicated in nations' decision to fight nation. Religion has become part of the political system of this world.

Look at Jesus, though. He had 'nowhere to lay his head'; he was tortured; he was killed by crucifixion. And still He told His followers to spread a gospel of forgiveness and reconciliation across the globe.

One of the great prophets who told of Jesus' coming was called Isaiah. He wrote:

"Unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given.
And His name will be called
Wonderful,
Counsellor,
Mighty God,
Everlasting Father,
Prince of Peace."
(Isaiah 9.6)

In the face of a world which hurries to refine its methods of mass destruction, we must keep on announcing that Jesus is the Prince of Peace.