Peace. Just the word can start to calm me on the inside. There are many meanings found in the dictionary. Some that especially find meaning in my life are: absence of hostility, freedom of dissension, state of tranquility or serenity, silence, stillness, untroubled, and tranquil. I suppose none of us can say we live in a state of peacefulness at all times. It would only be that way in a perfect world.
Psalms 34:14 tells us to “ Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it”. In the new testament the Bible admonishes us to be a peacemaker as much as we can to our ability. We all go through storms in life. It might be little agitations, or heavy trauma that tears away at our peace of mind. Sometimes real fears rage through our hearts, and only leaning on our heavenly Father can bring the restful, quiet state back into our lives. And forgiveness. That is a huge part of finding peace in this world. We only have control of our own actions in giving that.
At this season of Christmas, we are encouraged to think about peace and goodwill. Perhaps that’s because Christmas is a celebration of Jesus’ birth, and when he became a man he showed amazing abilities to bring peace to His surroundings. Jesus could calm any storm with a word: “Quiet, be still” from the fourth chapter of Mark. When the disciples first witnessed Jesus’ power to bring this peace, they were amazed. “ Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” (Mark 4:41)
It is a gift. Tranquility…quietness..peace of mind…serenity. This gift can come quietly and unexpectedly. Just gazing out the window at the new fallen snow or the soft glow of a candle. During a walk outside when you are alone with your thoughts. It can come from a loving gesture of a friend, and sometimes from a smile or a kindness from someone you have never met. Even tears or laughter can leave behind a peace that is so welcoming. Simply being silent can cause our hearts to calm down and return our inner being to a state of peacefulness.
In Christ’s own words from John 14:27, He says, “ Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
My wish for you this Christmas is peace in your life. May it fill you to the point of overwhelming joy. Hang on to it tightly, as it is as priceless as the gold, frankincense, and myrrh that the Wise Men brought to Jesus so long ago.
“Peace be to you,” Jesus says. To you.
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