What is occupying your heart and mind this Christmas season? Are you overwhelmed by the busy schedule of events, family gatherings, shopping, cooking, cleaning and traditions? Are you burdened by a tight budget, unexpected diagnoses or the yearning for a loved one who is distant or departed? All these things and more weigh on so many, yet Jesus came to help us bear these burdens and bring us true peace. In John 14:27, Jesus promised us "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."
We live in an unprecedented time. So much of the world is accessible at our fingertips. Entertainment is available in innumerable ways. Within moments, one can find almost anything to satiate that curiosity or satisfy their desires. We have the freedom to worship however we choose without the threat of death or imprisonment. And yet, we are surrounded by a mental health crisis. Depression rates have skyrocketed. Division over political and personal beliefs seem to have never been wider. People all around us are hurting, longing for an end to their pain. But there is good news! Jesus came to give us peace. And not a worldly peace that fades quickly and fails to satisfy. We have a supernatural peace that allows us to be content in whatever circumstances we find ourselves in. Jesus came to earth as a man to take on our burdens of sin and pain and He promised to care for our every need. He knows our pain because He lived through it,
and He brings us peace because he overcame it.
So in those moments where anxiety and fear do begin to take hold, what should we do? How do we access that promised peace? We pray! In Philippians 4:6-7, Paul writes "do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." As you go through this Christmas season, remember to talk to Jesus. Ask Him to help with the challenges that you face. Thank Him for the blessings He has provided. Cast the fear, anxiety and worry that burdens on Him and receive the supernatural peace that He
offers.
Lord, You are the source of our peace. You came to this earth to walk among us and know our burdens and ultimately to take them away with Your death on the cross and victorious resurrection, conquering sin and death. We ask that you would take our burdens and anxiety and give us Your peace. Guard our hearts and our minds in Christ
Jesus, in whose name we pray, Amen.
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