Author: Natasha Howard
I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid. John 14:27
In a season that often feels hurried and full of noise and distractions, Jesus offers us something the world cannot, His peace. In this verse, Jesus is preparing His disciples for his departure. They were anxious and uncertain, much like we feel sometimes. At that moment, Jesus didn’t promise that everything would calm down. He promised that He would be their peace within the storm. He is our peace in the worry about affording the holidays. He is our peace in the missing of our loved ones who won’t be at the dinner table this year. He is our peace in the everchanging world and circumstances.
As we begin the Christmas season, the time to celebrate God stepping into our world as man, we’re reminded that true peace is not found in perfect plans, quiet homes, or neatly wrapped gifts. Peace is found in the presence of Christ.
Advent is a season of waiting, but also of resting. In all the noise that demands our attention, Jesus whispers the same words today: “ Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Let His peace settle over your heart like a warm blanket on a cold night. It is steady, lasting and not dependent on your circumstances, for it comes from Him.
This verse hits home to me especially this year. We are going to be navigating this holiday season without my stepmother, whose impact on my life was so large. While I know there will be times of sadness and longing for her to be there cooking and serving the community, I have peace in knowing that God is with us during this time.
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for being our peace. In the middle of everything this season brings, help us rest in your presence. Teach us to be still and to trust you fully. Let your peace rule us in this Advent season, may it flow through us and to others. Amen.
Action:
Take five minutes today to sit quietly in God’s peace. No phone, no music, no distractions. Breathe deeply and reflect on these words “My peace I give you.” Ask Jesus to fill the space with his peace that surpasses understanding.