We decorated for Christmas last week. In my mind I had envisioned Nat King Cole’s Christmas album playing in the background, the scent of hot apple cider wafting through the house, and my darling children giggling with excitement as I handed them their tree ornaments to place – gingerly – upon our tree. I wanted to take pictures. I wanted to document this marvelous moment of family bonding for all the world to see.
Needless to say, as boxes whizzed by my head and poor baby Jesus lost his swaddle, Christmas decorating at my house was a hurricane of garland, bows and nativity scenes. Our tree now sits at a lovely 45 degree angle. Once little hands were added to the holiday decorating mix it was all over. A Christmas whirlwind blew through my home. And I survived. Without pictures.
Christmas is marvelous, with or without the warm fuzzy daydreams of a hopeful mom. It is that time of year when anticipation and wonder fills the hearts and minds of children and adults alike. We believe in miracles. We believe in peace on earth. But…the holiday, the festivities, the lights and carols only create a temporary illusion of peace. When December is over, and down come the tinsel and garland, the magic evaporates into thin air.
And then…for those seeking inner peace, joy, and happiness…what comes next? Perhaps a New Year’s party? Or spring vacation and a week at the beach? Or maybe buying something new? Something to fill the void of the soul. A void that will grow deeper and wider with time. And no matter how much we search for peace in those fleeting moments of perfection, the void remains.
If we can point to a thing, a place, a person or day and give it credit for peace, then we are hanging our hopes on things that will vanish or disappoint us. And always, we will be left with a longing.
Peace doesn’t come wrapped up with a bow. Peace, as much as I’d like to believe, doesn’t last in a picture perfect family moment. Peace isn’t about moments at all. Peace - the kind that surpasses understanding, circumstances, financial strain, sickness, or death - comes from Jesus. As long as we are searching the world over for those tiny peeks at joy and happiness we will miss knowing a Savior who doesn’t necessarily shield us from life, but steadies and holds us up through the storm. Peace on earth begins with peace on the inside. And that peace comes from Jesus Christ.
As I wake up on these short days in December, before my family has regained consciousness from their warm, winter’s slumber, I snuggle into my little spot in front of my perfectly crooked Christmas tree. I treasure the fact that not all moments in my life will be peaceful. But I know I can have peace in every moment that I live. Centered in the peace that passes understanding.
Luke 2:14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; 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.
Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Peace on earth.
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So glad that I have found Peace. His name is Peace.
Amy, that is so good and so true. I am reminded of how the Christmas cards all say “PEACE ON EARTH” and we as Christians circulate these cards and don’t even realize that it is not even scriptural. In fact, Jesus says (I am paraphrasing) “I do not come to bring peace, but division.”
The only peace provided by God is to individuals who seek God, know His Son and like you said, they will find peace, a perfect peace, when their mind is stayed on Him.
I love how you said that not all moments will be peaceful but you can find peace in all the moments. THAT is God’s promise and I am leaning even now on that promise as we walk through some pretty tough times.
Dwelling in His peace is what sustains me.