How Can I Find Peace in the Midst of Christmas?
CONVERSATIONS:
Christmas is one of the two most meaningful events in Christendom! In this season, we celebrate the coming of the promised Savior, Jesus Christ, who would grow up to redeem us from our sins and reconcile us to God. For those who believe in Jesus, His coming ushers man's peace with God. Christmas reminds us of the joy of being known, loved, and forgiven by God and the hope of being with Him forever. As adopted children, Christmas reminds us that He is our home.
The peace and joy in our hearts that come with God's fulfilment of His promise in Jesus certainly run deep.
So where do these go when the Christmas season comes and we are caught in December traffic, Christmas rush, and all the shopping and parties? When we allow all this busyness to crowd out the meaning of Christmas, we end up with tired bodies, frazzled nerves and feelings of emptiness.
In her song, "I Need a Silent Night," Amy Grant sings: I need a silent night, a holy night To hear an angel voice through the chaos and the noise I need a midnight clear, a little peace right here To end this crazy day with a silent night.
To have her silent night, Amy asked herself later in the same song: What was it like back there in Bethlehem with peace on earth, goodwill toward men?
What did the news of the birth of Jesus mean to its first hearers and witnesses?
In your devotions this week, read and meditate on who Jesus is when His coming was announced in: *Matthew 1:18-25, especially vv. 21 and 23 *Luke 2:1-38, esp. vv.10-11, 14, 30, 38 *Read also: John 1:1-18
If Christmas has become chaos to you, it's time to reset your heart and remember what and who exactly we are celebrating:
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end.
Isaiah 9:6-7
Ask yourself: How is Jesus the Prince of Peace to you? ____________________________________________________
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To help family members and friends rest from the hustle and bustle and focus their eyes on Jesus this season, here is one idea: As part of one of your family or friends celebrations of this season, invite each one to answer this question: "How is Jesus the Prince of Peace in your life?" After this, invite everyone to pray with hearts thankful for the Prince of Peace.
May the Prince of Peace overwhelm you with His peace as He takes centerstage in all your preparations and celebrations this season.
Let's pray:
We thank You, Heavenly Father, for the Lord Jesus, for He is our Savior and our Peace. Help us to move away from being distracted and drowned out by the frills of this season. Instead, may all these just reflect our celebration of all that Jesus is to us. Flood our hearts with the peace and joy of knowing Christ personally, that we may overflow with thanksgiving for His coming. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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