I love all things cozy—fleece blankets, warm pjs, hot coffee, twinkle lights, scented candles, gently falling snow, and early morning stillness.
The coziness of it all makes me feel so peaceful. But these things aren’t the true source of my peace. Jesus is where true peace comes from.
For to us a child is born,
To us a son is given,
And the government will be on his shoulders.
And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father,
Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6
The Peace of God
Sometimes worry and fear threaten our peace. Anxious thoughts creep in and cloud our faith. We can forget the goodness of God.
At Christmas we focus on baby Jesus in the manger, but let’s not forget the reason God sent us that baby—let’s not forget the cross. Through the cross of Christ we have peace with God. And when we surrender our lives to Jesus and make him our Lord—then we can have the peace of God. When we’re surrendered to Him, we put our trust in Him for all things.
Surrendered Servant
Mary received some earth shattering, life-altering news from an angel. News that would impact her pending marriage to Joseph. News that could potentially get her stoned to death. Things were never going to be the same again. Mary didn’t know how the story would ultimately turn out, yet she had peace.
Mary had peace even when riding a donkey nine months pregnant, giving birth in a stinky stable, and having to flee to another country after Jesus was born. She had peace because she was surrendered to her Lord.
What was Mary’s response to the angel?
“I am the Lord’s servant.” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.”
Luke 1:38
Our Prince of Peace
Mary had a front row seat to the first Advent. She anticipated the arrival of Jesus like no one else. And though her obedience was costly, she had peace in God. She was about to deliver the Prince of Peace after all!
As we celebrate the birth of Christ this season, let’s remember His arrival ushered peace into the world. No matter what’s happing around us, with our kids, in our homes, our community, our nation, our world—we have access to the Prince of Peace. Let’s surrender to Him.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7
My Gift to You
Throughout December on the Adoption and Foster Care Journey podcast, I’ll be featuring my annual Advent Series each week focusing on hope, peace, joy and love. Tune in for the following:
Short Advent message
Scripture
Holiday Parenting Survival Tip
Suggested Breath Prayer
My Prayer for YOU
Find the second episode on the theme of peace HERE
I pray you enjoy a season full of the hope, peace, joy and love of Jesus!
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