Peace on Earth: Love Incarnate Brings Peace
“He became as good a friend, as good a master, and as good a man, as the good old city knew.”
(A Christmas Carol, Stave 5)
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” (Luke 2:14)
Advent Day 22 — Peace on Earth: Love Incarnate Brings Lasting Peace
Theme: Love Incarnate brings lasting peace.
At the heart of A Christmas Carol is a longing for peace — not merely the quiet of a snowy London night, but the deep reconciliation of human hearts with God and one another. Dickens understood that peace is more than the absence of conflict; it is the presence of love made real.
When Scrooge awakens on Christmas morning, reborn to a life of compassion, he doesn’t simply feel better about himself — he becomes an agent of peace. The one who once sowed discord now brings joy and blessing. The same man who barked “Bah! Humbug!” now greets his world with laughter and goodwill. Dickens writes, “He became as good a friend, as good a master, and as good a man, as the good old city knew.”
This is what divine love does — it reconciles, it restores, it renews. Just as Scrooge finds peace through repentance and generosity, so Christ brings peace to all who receive His love. The angels’ song on that first Christmas night was not wishful thinking; it was the announcement of a new reality. In Jesus, Love Himself has taken on flesh, bridging heaven and earth.
Paul reminds us in Ephesians 2:14 that Christ “Himself is our peace.” Through His cross, He has broken down the dividing wall of hostility — between God and humanity, and between neighbor and neighbor. The peace of Christ is not temporary or fragile. It is eternal, secured by the One who is Love Incarnate.
As you turn your attention to today’s artwork, observe the joy and peace in Scrooge’s nephew, Fred. As you listen to the Advent Playlist, let carols such as “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” quiet your spirit. Reflect on how peace begins not in circumstances, but in a heart transformed by Love.
True peace begins where Love is enthroned. And once Love reigns within, peace cannot help but flow outward — into our homes, our neighborhoods, and our world.
Prayer
Prince of Peace, You came into a world of darkness and brought the light of love. Let Your peace rule in my heart and overflow into my words and actions. Where there is division, make me an instrument of reconciliation. Where there is fear, let me sow trust. Thank You for coming to dwell among us, to bring peace on earth and good will to all. In Your holy name, Amen.
Artwork: “It’s I, your uncle Scrooge. I have come to dinner. Will you let me in, Fred?”
Artist: Arthur Rackham
Medium: Hand-drawn with watercolor washing
Date: 1915
Published in: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Artistic Analysis
1. Artistic Style
Arthur Rackham’s unmistakable style is central to the image:
Loose yet expressive ink lines define the figures and objects with a slightly whimsical irregularity.
Soft, translucent watercolor washes create mood rather than strict realism.
Muted, earthy tones are characteristic of Rackham’s palette—warm browns, grays, and golds dominate, creating a gentle and nostalgic atmosphere.
Rackham’s work often blends the fantastical with the human, and here he softens Dickens’s world with a touch of fairytale warmth.
2. Narrative Moment
The illustration captures a pivotal emotional moment from A Christmas Carol:
Scrooge, newly transformed, arrives at his nephew Fred’s home for Christmas dinner.
The image conveys:
Scrooge’s hesitant humility—a man unused to warmth and welcome.
Fred and his young wife’s open, heartfelt invitation, signaling forgiveness, joy, and family connection.
This is the moment when Scrooge first steps into genuine human fellowship after years of isolation.
3. Composition
Rackham arranges the scene to emphasize Scrooge’s transition:
The Doorway
Scrooge stands framed in an open door, still partly in shadow.
Symbolically, he is at a threshold, moving from his cold, lonely world into a warm, loving family space.
The Gesture of Welcome
Fred’s arms are extended toward Scrooge, bridging the space between them.
His wife stands just behind, adding depth and human warmth.
Their posture literally draws Scrooge into the circle of light.
The Table
The bright white tablecloth and the piled fruit suggest abundance, festivity, and generosity.
The table anchors the right side of the image, representing the joy Scrooge is being invited into.
Rackham’s composition guides the viewer’s eye from the dark doorway → to Fred’s gesture → to the glowing celebration.
4. Color, Light, and Mood
Rackham uses light and color symbolically:
Warm golden light fills the dining room, highlighting abundant food and decorations.
Scrooge, in contrast, is painted in cooler, grayer hues, conveying the remnants of his old life.
The holly, ribbons, and soft red accents connect the moment to Christmas symbolism and renewal.
The overall mood is gentle, hopeful, and emotionally restorative.
5. Symbolic Elements
This scene is rich in Dickensian and Rackham-esque symbolism:
The Door: A moment of transformation; Scrooge crosses from his past into redemption.
Outstretched Hands: Forgiveness, acceptance, family, and unconditional welcome.
Holly Decorations: Tradition, festivity, and the promise of renewal.
Fruit and Tableware: Material signs of generosity, hospitality, and fellowship.
Rackham uses these elements to emphasize that Scrooge’s redemption is not only spiritual but relational.
O Come, O Come Immanuel
Latin Hymn, 12th century
Translated by John M. Neale (1818-1866)
Playlist Daily Highlight
We’ve provided multiple versions of this classic Christmas carol. Listen to your favorite style, but also try something new!
See if you find a new appreciation for this song or a different version than what you’re used to.
Take the time to listen . . . really listen to the words of this song and reflect on them. Let God speak to you in this moment.