As we wade through the aftermath of, perhaps, the most contentious election that I have known in my lifetime, my heart is craving peace. Yet, it seems that peace on earth is more illusive than ever. In our preparations to celebrate Christmas, it might be helpful to remind ourselves that the first advent of the Prince of Peace did not result in political peace. In fact, that was not even the purpose of Christ’s birth. He was born that His kingdom might first be established in the hearts of men and women. He came to bring peace within. While there will come a day when the kingdoms of this world will become the kingdoms of our God and of His Christ, we are all living in the messy realm of “not yet”.
In the “not yet” realm of unrealized peace on earth, election time isn’t the only season that can be difficult to navigate peaceably. Holidays can, unfortunately, be another time when peace feels illusive. Schedules are fuller, budgets are tighter, relationships may be strained by unrealistic expectations and unreasonable demands. What can we do, in practical ways, to bring peace on earth into our everyday life? (Join me for the rest of this post on Sunday, November 27th, at Woman to Woman Ministries where each Sunday I share a bit of Sunday Soul Food!)
still following,
Also happily linking up with the lovely
Love your graphic you share with this scripture. Peace, Goodwill toward man. Sometimes that mixes like oil and water, but your post always says it perfect and speaks to reason. Love how you finish with:
ReplyDeletePeace and quiet may not be a physical possibility as our homes and holidays fill up with activity and people, but the peace of God within is readily available and accessible even in the middle of all of the holiday hullabaloo. Jesus Christ came so that we might have His peace within. Glory to God!
Peabea@Peabea Scibbles
Thank visiting and leaving a Sunday Blessing link. :)
I appreciate your encouragement so much, and am so glad to have found you in this online world!
DeletePine cones and Christmas decor just seem to go together. Your photo caught the beauty. To God be the Glory as we enter hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
ReplyDeleteYes! To God be the glory and thanks and praise! May He be magnified in our hearts and homes this holiday season.
DeleteYour post made me want to dig out my CD's of Handel's Messiah. That's now on my list of things to do this afternoon! I'll play them as I begin my Christmas decorating tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteHandel's Messiah is my absolute FAVORITE! I love finding a kindred spirit who understands the profound beauty and truth in Handel's Messiah. (I saw Handel's grave in Westminster Abbey last year on our trip to London!)
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