Hopeful, loving, joyous peace.
Real faith has perfect peace and joy and a
shout at any time. It always sees the victory. –Smith Wigglesworth
Something remarkable happened in
December 1914, during World War I. No one quite understands it.
In the week leading up to
Christmas, in some areas, French, German and British soldiers laid down their
arms and set aside their differences. They ventured into No Man’s Land,
exchanged greetings and hugs, shared a smoke and a story. Care packages from home
belonged to everyone.
It was as if God’s own Holy
Spirit moved across the front lines and insisted on being recognized and
welcomed.
Soccer games broke out. Peals of
joy and laughter replaced the sounds of gunfire and rocket blasts.
Like little children, men took a
break from the painful realities of war that surrounded them. The peaceable
kingdom, in some small realms, was at hand.
And God saw, and I am certain,
God declared, It is good.
Of course, it couldn’t last, not as long as even one
heart was filled with unrest. But it’s happened before; it can happen again.
The little child Jesus can lead us.
Peace on earth. So much more than
words on a Christmas card.
Let peace begin, this very day,
with me and with you. Amen.
Monday Begin the week with silence. Sit in
stillness for as long as you are able. Listen for God’s voice through the
quiet. Give thanks. Jeremiah 23:5-8
Tuesday If you are able, walk outside today.
Feel the air on your skin; embrace God’s touch. Isaiah 11:1-9
Wednesday Seek out a crowded place, a mall or
other busy center. You know God is hanging out there, as well, right? Watch and
listen. Breathe deeply. Isaiah 9:2-6
Thursday Make yourself a cup of your favorite
hot beverage. Consider inviting someone to share it with you. Before you taste it, allow yourself to
partake of its fragrance. Savor each mouthful. Give thanks. Luke 1:26-38
Friday So many cold, hungry, hurting children
of all ages in the world! Today, change one life for the better. How you do it
is up to you. Try not to get caught. Luke
2:8-20
Saturday Saturday. Time for reflection. Did you
enjoy this week, in the face of the Christmas rush? How might you make this
calming experience a habit? (It’s all in your hands. God will show up when we
seek God’s presence.) John 1:1-14.
Sunday Christmas
Eve How will you allow the Light of Christ to take root in your heart and
in your everyday way of living? Ponder and pray. Luke 2:19
Divine love is perfect peace and joy, it is
a freedom from all disquiet, it is all content and happiness; and makes
everything to rejoice in itself. –William Law
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