Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:16
We see the word PEACE a lot this time of year – Peace on Earth, Goodwill to Men. At times, it seems an impossibility. Where do you find peace at Christmas? Not in the toy store as people scramble to be the lucky ones to get the last two of the hottest toy this year. Not in the mall with people lost in their own agendas bumping into each other, pushing into lines, or waiting impatiently to check out, juggling bouncy kids and purchases. Not at office parties where everyone talks loudly over the music, eats too much, and perhaps indulges a bit more than they should. Certainly not in the kitchen a half hour before the family descends for the traditional Christmas meal with all the trimmings. Nor behind stage trying to organize squirming tikes into place for the pageant, or the choir for the performance they’ve been rehearsing so long.
How ironic that the time of year we celebrate the One who came to earth to bring us peace, is so filled with anything but that! Perhaps it is because we seek peace out there, and not inside of us. We want our enviornment to be peaceful and calm, when God wants to make our souls that way. If we have the peace that passes all understanding in our hearts, then no matter what happens out here, we can remain clam, thankful, unflustered and joyful.
How to find peace on earth and goodwill to men (and women) this holiday season? Start by asking the Lord of all peace to re-instill it in your heart. Prepare to receive the Babe again.
