Christmas Peace

 

Now muster your troops, O daughter of troops; siege is laid against us; with a rod they strike the judge of Israel on the cheek. But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth; then the rest of his brothers shall return to the people of Israel. And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth. And he shall be their peace. (Micah 5:1-5 ESV).

 

There was a time in our lives when we experienced the pressure to buy everyone a gift, go to every party, and fulfill every holiday tradition. I’m sure many pastors have felt the same, especially as we are near Christmas. The additional pressure of all the additional services only added to the drain of physical and emotional energy. Somehow, the happiest season became the most stressful. I know this is true for many others, though in a different way. We sing about peace yet rush through each day without it. But what if this Christmas could be different? It can.

 

Our reading today is found in the Old Testament book of Micah. He prophesies a ruler will come from Bethlehem, one who will shepherd his people and bring peace. The prophecy in Micah is a promise to us. We, too, can enjoy the peace Jesus brings in this season. We experience peace in the chaos by learning to pray before we plan. God wants to be involved in every situation, including how we celebrate Him this Christmas. Jesus is our source of peace. So, talk to Him and rely on the promises of His Word.

 

Isaiah tells us, “He will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.” (Isaiah 26:3) Paul challenges us, “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 4:6-7) Jesus promises 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.” (John 14:27). These are our promises today!