The Pastor’s Blog – PEACE
At Christmas I love to sit by the tree listening to Christmas songs and sipping a hot drink. Our living room becomes a haven of peace. With no TV and no computer to distract, I listen to the songs that celebrate the birth of Jesus so long ago. No matter how hectic the day has been, how demanding or trying, there is this place of quiet refuge where I can spend time in the presence of the Prince of Peace. I think every family needs a place like this in their home.
Now families with small kids are likely saying, “Are you kidding?” But even they can establish a place to be quiet, a place to read the Christmas story together or play a game under the tree, or maybe do a puzzle. Be creative … That popcorn decorated tree is the same tree our children sat under as they were growing up and it was a place we all could find rest and peace.
This year so much of the busyness of the season has come to a screeching halt as we are asked not to gather in groups outside our family circle. This means no banquets, concerts, parties or special services. Our first reaction might be to bemoan our loss, but maybe we should rethink that. I do not know how many times in past Christmases I have heard people say they are exhausted after Christmas is done. They run from event to event as if missing something might cause them to miss out on Christmas. I know I often hit Christmas Day so worn out I inevitably come down with a cold.
So maybe we should thank God for wiping the slate clean for us this year, allowing us to ask once again, “What really is important?” Maybe that quiet place by the Christmas tree, where you can read your Bible and pray without having to run off to some activity is His gift to you!
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Maybe as we are still in the presence of Jesus this Christmas He will be exalted like never before, in a way he never could be in our hustle and bustle. In in His presence I know you will receive the gift of peace.
– Pastor Gary