This morning I had a different start to my day. I’ve told you how much I enjoy waking up early, reading my Bible and having my prayer time in the quiet. The only noises I hear are the coffee brewing, the electric fireplace, and an occasional coyote.
Not this morning. I woke with a painful start. I had a charley horse in my right calf and my right foot was in a spasm. As I attempted to stand, another one hit my left thigh. At this point I was trying to maintain my balance; I didn’t want to fall over, and I didn’t want to wake Dave.
This was not the peaceful morning I had planned. That’s how it happens: peace-robbing, joy-stealing, stress-filled moments. Living in the peace of God is not a one-time decision, it is a daily lesson.
So, let’s go back a couple days to the reference I made on Jesus, Prince of Peace. In light of all that is going on in my world I definitely need the Prince of Peace.
Can you imagine being a shepherd, probably dosing off for the night when the entire night sky lit up? Talk about UFO’s – this was an invasion! No place to run, no place to hide and then came the message:
“That night in the fields near Bethlehem some shepherds were guarding their sheep. 9 All at once an angel came down to them from the Lord, and the brightness of the Lord’s glory flashed around them. The shepherds were frightened. 10 But the angel said, ‘Don’t be afraid! I have good news for you, which will make everyone happy. 11 This very day in King David’s hometown a Savior was born for you. He is Christ the Lord. 12 You will know who he is, because you will find him dressed in baby clothes and lying on a bed of hay.’
13 Suddenly many other angels came down from heaven and joined in praising God. They said: 14 ‘Praise God in heaven! Peace on earth to everyone who pleases God.'” Luke 2:8-14 CEV
Don’t be afraid – Peace! This isn’t just a nice little story in a nice little book – these shepherds were real people, and they came face to face with talking angels. That would make the hair on the back of my neck stand up!
What is it you’re facing today – a bad medical report, a failing marriage, wayward children, financial failure, world unrest, the collapse of the future you had planned…or just some charley horses in the early morning hours.
Christmas is about a week away. There are still so many things to do; baking, shopping, gatherings, working, wrapping, traveling, resting. Deep breath, peace.
Then listen to what Jesus said
“I give you peace, the kind of peace that only I can give. It isn’t like the peace that this world can give. So don’t be worried or afraid.” John 14:27 CEV
and then just a bit later
“‘I have told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world you will have troubles. But be brave! I have defeated the world!’” John 16:33 ERV
This morning, as you are looking out on your world, be still, recover and let the peace of God rule in your heart.