You know what the very first Christmas greeting was? “Fear not. Rejoice. Peace to all men.” Peace…do you feel peace right now? Are you rejoicing in this season? Or do you find yourself overwhelmed, burnt out, and focused on everything but the Reason for it all?
Our pastor had a great message this past Sunday about finding true peace and joy this Christmas. To paraphrase Pastor Tim…If Christ came back today would He be concerned with all the “stuff” you have or have not done to prepare for Christmas…how many lights are on your house, how many gifts you’ve bought or cards you’ve sent? Or do you think He may be more concerned with whether we have prepared our hearts and are taking advantage of this special time of year to share His love and His peace with the world?
Perhaps we need to take an inventory of the things we “have to do,” and see if just maybe we and the Lord may not be best served this year by leaving some of those things undone. Perhaps some of those decorations still not up would be best left in their boxes. Or maybe just sending out of town Christmas cards would be in order this year to allow you and your family some more time to relax and enjoy. Maybe even buying refrigerated cookie dough would be permissible…I hear Santa likes them just as well. J I encourage you to take this inventory. Cut out the things that are robbing you of the joy of Christmas. Take some time to just sit by the light of your tree and lift your heart to God in thanks for all He has done for you, remembering first and foremost the wonderful gift of His son.
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful." Colossians 3:15 (NKJV)
In this very exciting time of year, let's hold this verse close and remember in all things to let the peace of God rule in our hearts. Take some time to think about how that might look in your life. Spend some time praying over this scripture this week and ask for the Lord's help in this area. If we are at peace we put others around us at peace. Definitely one of the greatest gifts we can give to those we love this Christmas season!
